Death of the Author

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of mental illness.

Zelu’s escape has boosted the profile of Hugo’s research group, which he invites her to join. He also reminds her to thank her fans for saving her life. Zelu is reluctant to agree, considering that her novel’s popularity indirectly caused the kidnapping attempt in the first place.

Zelu reunites with her siblings outside the Chicago O’Hare Airport. Omoshalewa stayed home because she didn’t feel strong enough to join the welcoming party. Tolu explains that while the family was watching Zelu’s live video, Omoshalewa experienced a panic attack. Chinyere criticizes Zelu, blaming her exos and her decision to tell the world about her kidnapping for Omoshalewa’s anxiety. 

Zelu says nothing back to her, instead observing the complicated nature of life. Later, Omoshalewa admits that she had panic attacks when she was younger and eventually learned how to deal with them.

When Zelu gets home, she is surprised to find Msizi there. She opens up about the guilt she feels for causing her mother’s panic attack. Msizi reminds Zelu that she hadn’t intentionally tried to get kidnapped. He encourages her to live her life and stop blaming herself for what happened.