For us Africans, literature must serve a purpose: to expose, embarrass, and fight corruption and authoritarianism. It is understandable why the African artist is utilitarian.

Switching unexpectedly between the two voices also creates a sense of tension which reflects the tension that Sissie feels during her time in Europe. Oftentimes blacks reaffirm the notion of white superiority by turning to Europe when they are looking for the “best” whether it be education or material possessions. Aidoo posits Our Sister as a radical to stand in strong opposition to those blacks who’s minds do not seem to be filled with thoughts of their own such as Sammy the first black person we are introduced to other than Our Sister.

Professor Ama Ata Aidoo née Christina Ama Aidoo (born 23 March 1940 Saltpond) is a Ghanaian author playwright and academic.