Observation

TThis question demands that candidates examine the relationship between Adah and her brother, Boy. It was a popular question but most responses were mere narration of the plot of the story.

Candidates were expected to mention the following points among others:

• The theme of patriarchy, gender discrimination in Igbo culture and racial preference, all of which impose hurdles on women and black people’s quest for social mobility.

• A character description of Adah and Boy. Adah and Boy are siblings.
• Growing up: Adah takes care of Boy; she takes him to school at Ladi Lak even though she is not allowed to go to school.
• Separation: Adah feels good that Boy comes to see her off to London. Boy never liked his sister’s marriage to Francis. He does not trust Francis. Boy sends his savings to Adah asking her to leave Francis and his children and come back to Nigeria where her job at the consulate is still waiting for her. Adah considers Boy the only person that matters and writes him a letter.
• Significance of their relationship: it exemplifies the idea that blood is thicker than water. Their relationship highlights the theme of gender and cultural preference against the girl child. It helps in developing the plot.

Most answers touch on the above points and the candidates performed well.