School Services

Down at Jika Jika Tavern

Bridging the Gap Between the Classroom and the Real South Africa.

Learners struggling to connect with their current set book?

Down at Jika Jika Tavern, a contemporary novel with a diverse set of characters, reflects the people of South Africa, the challenges we face, and the raw beauty of our country.

Perfect for Grade 10-12, allowing for classroom discussions on identity, justice, social inequality, conservation, and environmentalism.

There are two more books in the series: The Leopard in the Lala, and out late 2026, In the Shadow of Baboon Rock.

Teacher Testimonial

One of the most memorable moments for me, teaching Down at Jika Jika Tavern, was seeing a student who had rarely participated in class suddenly come alive when we began reading this book.

He engaged passionately with the text, often initiating discussions and offering thoughtful insights. It was like teaching a completely new student, that’s the power of this story.

— Sarah Bird (Grade 10 English Home Language Teacher – Curro)