The Long Walk

Short story that can be found in this book.

Author: George Layton

Age: KS2

This short story is quite simple to follow, making it very accessible for pupils. A grandad takes his grandson on a long walk for the day - this appears to be something they do often, as the child (narrator) discusses memories of other day-trips, like going to the zoo. As the journey begins things start to appear to be less familiar, such as going to the "basin" (where the canal starts) and seeing a brand new shopping centre. The passing of time is evident here, as the grandad mentions "It's all changed now." Eventually, the walk ends up in a graveyard and there is a plot for grandad - he knows he is dying and this was his way of sharing this with his grandson. Three days later he dies, which is a shock for everyone but himself and the grandson.

This resource is a calmer approach to death, suitable for children and provides opportunities to focus on inference and comprehension. Different language techniques are used throughout, which could be focused on to develop writing skills. There are questions left unanswered that could be explored (Why did the grandad tell the boy? Who is the boy? - he has no name).