Journey to Jo'burg
Beverley Naidoo, C. M. Smith, HarperAudio
Audiobook
(HarperAudio, Dec. 30, 2019)
A classic look at prejudice and racism in apartheid South Africa, this short and compelling novel is perfect for independent projects and classroom sharing. Separated from their mother by the harsh social and economic conditions prevalent among blacks in South Africa, 13-year-old Naledi and her younger brother make a journey over 300 kilometers to find her in Johannesburg. Mma lives and works in Johannesburg, far from the village Naledi and Tiro call home. When their baby sister suddenly becomes very sick, Naledi and Tiro know, deep down, that only one person can save her. Bravely, alone, they set off on a journey to find Mma and bring her back. It isn't until they reach the city that they come to understand the dangers of their country, and the painful struggle for freedom and dignity that is taking place all around them.