This half term, Year 5 will be reading ‘Journey to Jo’burg’ by Beverley Naidoo, which tells the story of South African siblings Naledi and Tiro and their fight to save their baby sister. Bravely, alone, they set off on a journey to find their mother, who they hope will be able to help. It isn’t until they reach her in the city of Johannesburg 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.

While reading this book, children will be completing a number of independent writing pieces. To begin with, children will write a character description about one of the book’s main characters. They will then take upon the role of Naledi and will write a letter to Mma (Naledi’s mother) before finishing the half term by writing a diary entry based upon the events of Naledi and Tiro’s journey across South Africa.

Listen to Chapter 1 of Journey to Jo’burg below:

https://youtu.be/5P6tm5EYmwE