No Turning Back: A Novel of South Africa

Features

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Cover Type: Paperback with 208 pages
• Published by: HarperTrophy January 6, 1999
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0064407497
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0064407496
• Book Dimensions: 7.6 x 5.2 x 0.6 inches
• Weighs: 5.6 ounces

From Publishers Weekly
In a starred review, PW called this powerful novel "a rare and moving glimpse" into the life of a homeless boy in the suburbs of Johannesburg. Ages 8-12.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal
Grade 4-8. Sipho's idyllic country life ends when his nurturing grandmother dies and he returns to his mother's shack. Shocked to discover he now has a stepfather who is brutal and abusive, Sipho lasts for six months before running away to the mean streets of Johannesburg. He is taken in by a rather tame gang and taught the ropes of survival by the good-natured Jabu. Money for food and arcade games is almost painlessly earned by helping to carry groceries. Joseph, Jabu's opposite, tries to steer Sipho to ruin by offering him iglue (glue) to sniff. After a traumatic episode with a vigilante group, he is rescued from the harsh streets by a white shop owner who grudgingly gives him shelter in response to the pleas of his daughter. Unfortunately, the man's malevolent son chases the boy away. Sipho finds Jabu and salvation at a shelter that seems too good to be true. An understanding nun takes him home to visit his mother and new baby sister. With the stepfather conveniently offstage (looking for a job), it appears that all will be well for this family. Naidoo's latest offering will disappoint those expecting a convincing look at the street life of homeless South African children. Her palette seems limited to black and white characterizations (steadfast Jabu, glue-sniffing Joseph, drunken stepfather, etc.). Changes are driven by plot and are not true to character. Jabu seems content with his street life?so why would he suddenly decide to sign on at the shelter? For a more convincing look at the strife and turmoil in South Africa, choose Hazel Rochman's Somehow Tenderness Survives (HarperCollins, 1988).?Marilyn Payne Phillips, University City Public Library, MO
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Reader Reviews
A well-written, exciting, informative, and poignant tale of a young boy growing up in post-Apartheid South Africa. Young Sipho runs away from home to escape an abusive stepfather and lives on the street. Eventually taken in by a white family, Sipho learns he's only there to provide cheap labor to the father's business. Sipho runs away again. Great tale about love, forgiveness, friendship, and guilt. Comment | | (Report this)