How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
The men went back to conversing among themselves. Eventually they let Tendai know their names. The old man was called Garikayi, and most of the others were his younger brothers. They didn't reveal too much about their totems, because such information could be used by witches. Slowly, tediously, the conversation wound on. (16.28)
In Resthaven, everyone believes in spirits and witches, and they take these beliefs very seriously. In fact, no one even wants to eat from the same plate as Tendai just in case he comes from a long line of witches. The supernatural plays a huge role in the heritage and culture of Zimbabwe in the book, particularly in Resthaven.
Quote #5
"If you don't expel the muteyo, everyone will think you're witches. I think that will please the Spirit Medium very much." (22.69)
Rita explains that their drink will not taste as bad as everybody else's, but they will still be expected to barf afterwards. Otherwise, they are witches. It's that simple. It seems like a huge fake-out to us, and we wonder why they have to give Tendai and Rita a special potion to prove they are witches if they really believe in this stuff.
Quote #6
"Traditional Africans didn't kill witches unless they'd murdered someone. But you'll wish you died. You'll get food the goats wouldn't touch and the nastiest chores. But worst of all, people will hate you. They'll look at you with loathing for the rest of your days. It's a terrible fate." (22.106)
Remind us never to go to Resthaven—we do not want to be treated like witches. We know that witches are a really big deal to the tribe. Why do you think that is? It doesn't seem that different to use a spirit (or a Spirit Medium) and a witch, yet it definitely is to the Resthaven people. What gives?