Journey to Jo'burg - A South African Story

“Has no equal. Evocative and haunting.” (School Library Journal starred review)

The bestselling classic set in South Africa during the apartheid era, in which two siblings must face the dangers of their divided country.

Mma lives and works in Johannesburg, far from the village thirteen-year-old Naledi and her younger brother, Tiro, call home. When their baby sister suddenly becomes very sick, Naledi and Tiro know that they need to bring their mother back in order to save their sister’s life. Bravely, secretly, they set off on the long journey to the big city to find Mma.

It isn’t until they finally reach Jo’burg that they see up close what life is like for black citizens across South Africa—and begin to really question the unfair and dangerous laws of apartheid.

A classic look at prejudice and racism in apartheid South Africa, this short and compelling novel is perfect for independent reading projects and classroom sharing.

Inspired by true events, this poignant historical fiction classic will open eyes and start important conversations. Readers will discover:

A Powerful Sibling Story: Thirteen-year-old Naledi and her younger brother Tiro risk everything, traveling over 300 kilometers alone to find their mother and save their baby sister. Historical Fiction for Kids: An accessible and moving introduction to the realities of apartheid South Africa, seen through the eyes of two brave children facing segregation and unfair laws for the first time. Family Separation: A heart-wrenching look at a system that forces their mother, Mma, to live and work hundreds of kilometers away from her own children just to provide for them. A Classic Banned Book: Originally banned in South Africa for its honest portrayal of injustice, this important novel is now an acclaimed resource for classrooms and families worldwide.