1. Sade's Triumph: Sade, the young protagonist, ultimately triumphs in her mission to find her missing brother Fikile and unravel the truth about their father's disappearance. She courageously confronts the authorities, the apartheid system, and the harsh living conditions of the time to achieve this.
2. Family Reunion: Sade's efforts lead to the reunion of her family. She finds her brother, Fikile, and they reunite with their aunt and uncle. The family is able to start the process of healing and moving forward together.
3. Exposure of Injustices: The book highlights the injustices and human rights abuses prevalent in apartheid South Africa, particularly the detention and mistreatment of individuals by the security police. Through the personal stories of Sade and her family, the novel sheds light on these issues, drawing international attention and awareness.
4. Nelson Mandela's Release: The release of Nelson Mandela from prison, which took place in real-life events outside of the novel, is mentioned in the book. It symbolizes a turning point in South African history, signaling the beginning of the end for apartheid and paving the way for democratic change.
5. Shift in Sade's Perspective: Throughout the book, Sade's perspective shifts from that of a naive young girl to a knowledgeable and politically-aware individual. She grows in understanding of the complexities of apartheid and becomes a symbol of resilience, courage, and the power of individuals in bringing about change.
6. Hope for Change: The book ends on a note of hope and optimism, as Sade and her family start to look towards a post-apartheid future. The novel suggests the potential for reconciliation and a brighter future for South Africa, free from the divisions of apartheid.