A Long Walk to Water
2010 by
on Goodreads (92,845)
What’s inside...
This book tells the story of two children in Sudan, a girl in 2008 and a boy in 1985. The boy, Salva, becomes one of the 'lost boys' of Sudan, refugees who cover the African continent on foot as they search for their families and for a safe place to stay. The girl, Nya, is fetching water from a pond that is two hours’ walk from her home. It tells of survival, persistence, and hope, based on the real-life experiences of Salva Dut.
Why read this book
- Inspires resilience through challenging circumstances.
- Highlights importance of empathy and community.
- Based on real-life events, enhancing educational value.
- Encourages understanding of diverse cultures and histories.
The Big Picture
- Highlights resilience in face of extreme challenges.
- Encourages empathy for diverse life experiences.
- Promotes conversation on global issues and personal adversity.
- Inspires actions of kindness and community support.
Diversity & Representation
- Highlights different cultures through Sudanese characters and settings.
- Illustrates diverse experiences and struggles in a gripping narrative.
- Promotes empathy and understanding across different backgrounds.
Book in series
#1
Age
10-13
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
How do Nya and Salva show resilience and courage in their different challenges?
Why is water such an important symbol in the story, and what does it represent for both main characters?
Discuss how the lives of Nya and Salva intersect. What does their connection tell us about community and helping others?
What lessons can we learn from Salva's leadership and his ability to keep going in difficult times?
How does this story change how you think about the things we often take for granted, like access to clean water?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the resilience and perseverance displayed by the characters by relating them to personal challenges. Use the story’s setting and the struggles for basic needs as a bridge to discuss global issues and empathy for different life conditions. Highlight the story’s themes of hope and determination, and ask your child how these themes can be applied in their own life. Make sure to listen actively to your child’s perspectives and thoughts to foster an open and inclusive discussion.
What parents love
Handles tough topics with care, great for mature kids.
Inspirational story, educational and deeply moving.
Promotes empathy, understanding, and resilience.
Engaging and thought-provoking, perfect for discussions.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The protagonist, Salva, demonstrates resilience as he survives the perilous journey as a Lost Boy of Sudan, facing harsh conditions and dangers.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance through difficulties and the ability to overcome challenges they encounter.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: As Salva encounters others who are also struggling, the story conveys a deep sense of empathy and the necessity of helping others in adversity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to understand and share the feelings of others and to act kindly in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Hope and Determination
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Salva continually focuses on his goals, such as his project to provide water to his village, highlighting the power of hope and determination.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of setting goals and maintaining hope, no matter the obstacles.
Example Lesson: Community and Cooperation
Explanation: Salva's success in his water project and survival during his journey illustrates the importance of working with others and building community.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the benefits of collaborative efforts and supporting one another towards common goals.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Salva experiences both hardship and moments of kindness, which foster a sense of gratitude for what he has.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate their circumstances and express gratitude in their everyday lives.