Part One: Amari Summary

In the opening section of the novel, the reader sees the beautiful setting of the village where Amari grew up. In the opening scene, Amari picks coconuts with her eight-year-old brother, Kwasi. Their beautiful day is interrupted when strange white men enter the village. Amari and her people have never seen such odd pale skin before, but excited to act as hosts to their interesting guests, quickly arrange a welcoming ceremony with dancing, food, and traditional entertainment. The party is shockingly broken up when the visitors, who have entered the village carrying rifles, begin shooting and killing the villagers. Without mercy, they bludgeon, beat, and shoot their hosts, including both of Amari's parents and Kwasi. Obviously, Amari is absolutely devastated and completely confused. The white men set the village ablaze, saving the lives of only the strongest and fittest...