Bajaj, Varsha. Thirst. Nancy Paulsen Books, 2022. 978-0-593-35439-1. 179 p. $17.99. Grades 4-7.
In poor Mumbai neighborhoods, accessing fresh water is a constant struggle. Each day, people wait for a turn to collect water from communal taps, but sometimes the water runs out before everyone gets a fair share, and sometimes the water that is available is not safe to drink without boiling. In this story, Minni and her family deal with water-borne illnesses, long lines that prevent people from going to work or school, and even water “bandits” that monopolize water access by controlling who can access community water sources. Minni even sees how wealthy people treat poorer people when she must take over her sick mother’s cleaning job. Minni’s brother, Sanjay, and Minni’s friend, Faiza support her and keep her grounded to the important things in life, and Minni experiences the support of her community in order to overcome her personal challenges as she works to create a more equitable life for everyone she knows.
THOUGHTS: This book is a thoughtful look at the inequalities that people experience around the world when it comes to accessing clean water. Tough issues are presented in an approachable way that upper-elementary and middle school students can understand, and ultimately Minni’s family comes through their struggles and can move forward in life stronger and more closely-knit, making the ending feel hopeful and inspiring readers to seek positive change.
Realistic Fiction Erin Faulkner, Cumberland Valley SD
