· Pay close attention to fables and proverbs in the story.  Note what happens in fables and make sure you know what situation or event triggers the saying of a proverb- as well as who says it.

· Familiarize yourself with Ibo words like “egwugwu,” and “chi.”  Don’t panic!  You don’t have to memorize everything.  Just make sure you know Ibo words that come up fairly often in the story.  (By the way: There’s a glossary at the end of the novel.)

· During important or shocking events in the novel, take note of what happens and what the outcome is.

· Explain the signficance of the title and be sure to understand how colonialism functions in the text.

· Note where the story takes place, and make sure you know where the characters come from.  If there are any special places mentioned in the story, take note.

· Pay attention to Mbantan and Umofian customs.  Know what they do when certain events happen, good or bad.  Get familiar with traditions.

· Note long quotes throughout the novel, know who says them, and why.  Look carefully at what characters say to each other.

· Also note that, in this story, things are heavily gendered.  For instance, if you commit a crime, you do more than commit an offense.  You can commit a “male” or “female” crime.  Know how the punishment differs for each.

· Finally, know important characters in the novel.  Know what they do, and why they’re important.