The novel does not follow in chronological order and uses the flashback technique throughout. Suggest why the author, Sindiwe Magona, chose to do so.

In the novel, Mandisa is telling her story. Her story, however, is related through a letter she writes to the mother of the young woman, who was killed by her son. In order to tell the story, flashbacks become an important part of the storytelling itself because Mandisa is not only dealing with the shame she feels..... she is also trying explain the past. In using this type of narration, Mandisa is able to apologize, as well as to come to terms with her son's action, and her feelings of responsibility for Mxolisi’s upbringing.