Summary
Nya takes her sister, Akeer, with her as she walks to the water hole. They play games and sing together, and they fill up the can at the water hole. On the way back, though, Akeer becomes sick and is unable to walk back. Nya pours out some of the water and makes painstaking headway back to her home by telling herself she can make it to just the next thing she can see. When they arrive, they think Akeer has a waterborne illness, so Nya and her mother take her to a clinic where she heals.
Theme(s):
Family, Illness, Perseverance
Personal Response
I thought this book was a beautiful way to make a way of life that differs greatly from American students accessible and relatable because it’s from Nya’s perspective but powerfully describes the importance of access to clean water. I related to the protectiveness she felt for her sister because I am also an oldest sister. This book reminded me of The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind because it showed the value of access to resources in remote parts of the world.
Teaching Ideas
This book could be integrated into social studies and science curriculum and activities. For example, my students are learning about countries and cultures all around the world. We read Africa is Not a Country, and this book could be one way to explain the similarities and differences even in just countries in Africa. It could also be used to teach about social issues: access to clean water can be one issue they write an opinion piece about after researching Water for South Sudan.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 02, Grade 03, Grade 04
