walkingforwater.jpg

Walking for Water: How One Boy Stood Up for Gender Equality

Illustrated by Nicole Miles, 2021

In this inspiring story of individual activism, a boy recognizes gender inequality when his sister must stop attending school --- and decides to do something about it. Victor is very close to his twin sister, Linesi. But now that they have turned eight years old, she no longer goes to school with him. Instead, Linesi, like the other older girls in their community, walks to the river to get water five times a day, to give their mother more time for farming. Victor knows this is the way it has always been. But he has begun learning about equality at school, and his teacher has asked the class to consider whether boys and girls are treated equally. Though he never thought about it before, Victor realizes they're not. And it's not fair to his sister. So Victor comes up with a plan to help.

Based on a true story of a Malawian boy, award-winning author Susan Hughes's inspiring book celebrates how one person can make a big difference in the lives of others. It's a perfect starting point for children to explore themes of gender inequality and unequal access to education, as well as the lack of clean water in some parts of the world. Nicole Miles's appealing artwork in this graphic novel / picture book hybrid format adds emotional context to the story. Also included are information about education and water availability in Malawi, resources and a glossary of Chichewa words. Part of the CitizenKid collection and featuring a growth mindset, this important book has links to social studies lessons on global communities and cultures, as well as to character education lessons on initiative, fairness and adaptability.

Published by Kids Can Press (June 1 2021)

Language: English

Hardcover: 32 pages

ISBN-10: 1525302493

ISBN-13: 978-1525302497

What the Reviewers Say


... an excellent example of allyship ... ―Sherbrooke Record

Engaging, colourful, simple but multilayered, evocative of a different culture, and empowering. It is hard to imagine a better told and more important story for children this age. Five stars plus for Walking for Water: How One Boy Stood Up for Gender Equality … ―CM Reviews

A lovely story with many uses.―Kirkus Reviews

... activism-encouraging ... ―Publishers Weekly

This text would pair nicely with a women’s studies unit, or more obviously the study of water conservation and accessibility. This book would pair nicely with others on the topic such as: Water Princess, One Well and The Water Protectors. ― Youth Services Book Review

The pictures are vibrant like the land of Malawi, yet simple like the message—act to solve social conflicts. This motivational story reveals that the silenced should not be the one to speak up first. There is power that comes with privilege, and like Victor, the people with advantage should voice and act on what is right. —Multicultural Education Journal, vol 29, iss 3/4, spring-summer 2o22

Awards & Nominations

  • OLA Forest of Reading Silver Birch Express 2022 nominee

  • Delaware Diamonds nominee K-2, 2022-23

  • Hackmatack Non-fiction nominee, 2022-23

  • Skipping Stones Honor Award, 2022