Content Warning: This section of the guide includes references to female genital mutilation, illness, death, sexual harassment, rape, drugs, and sexual content.

Kadiatou reflects on her childhood in Nigeria. She grew up in a village with her father, mother, and sister Binta. When she and Binta were young, their father was killed “in a rock slide, in the old gold mine” (153). Afterward, Kadi and Binta’s uncle Bappa Moussa insisted they move to his village so he could care for them. Kadi didn’t want to leave home but Binta hoped she might attend school in Conakry and stay with their Tantie Fanta. Kadi admired Binta and pretended to be interested in school too; really, she wanted to learn domestic duties and become a wife and mother.

One day, Binta urged Kadi to climb a tree with her. Although afraid, Kadi joined Binta, proud of herself for facing her fear. However, Bappa Moussa caught and scolded them for being unladylike. Their mom was upset too, but Kadi knew she was secretly proud of Binta.

Meanwhile, Kadi learned how to cook. Everyone praised and admired her skill. In the meantime, Binta began studying French. When the girls came of age, their mother staged their cutting ritual (also known as female genital mutilation, or FGM).