A Long Walk To Water

Author:

Linda Sue Park

Illustrator:

N/A

Published by:

Rock The Boat

First Published:

31 May 2018

Ideal for readers aged

13+y

My Review

This is a really remarkable book - so short, really, for what it holds in its pages, and the impact it has on the reader. Linda Sue Park writes in really simple prose, which makes this an easy read - even for reluctant teen readers - and the line spacing and length of the book (just 128 pages) makes it a good choice for teens with dyslexia too. But, it is a book for everyone - so revealing in its description of the conflict in Sudan and its effect on those who live there, yet so full of hope as we realise that Salva has not only survived his harrowing childhood flight, but has built a life around returning to Sudan and pioneering a life-giving project bringing water to desert regions and forgotton peoples.

It's a story that leaves you amazed and wondering what your contribution in the world could be if Salva, who has lost so much, can give so generously. A must-read for teens!

Heads Up!

Salva's story of flight from his village and the loss of his family - especially one scene when his uncle, who has become Salva's carer and role model, is shot in front of him - are not easy to read. It's a gritty book, but told in simple prose so the details are spare and nothing is graphic or unnecessarily violent - it is just a story, truthfully told.

Publisher Review

A gripping tale of conflict and survival that has inspired millions of young readers and adults alike, with three million copies sold worldwide Eleven-year-old Salva is forced to flee on foot when his village comes under attack. Braving every imaginable hardship – including killer lions and hungry crocodiles – he is one of the 'lost boys' travelling the African continent on foot in search of his family and a safe place to stay. Nya goes to the pond two times a day to fetch water. It takes her eight hours. But there is unexpected hope, as these two stories set in Sudan – one unfolding in 2008 and one in 1985 – go on to intersect with Nya’s in an astonishing and moving way.