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A Long Walk to Water

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010

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Book Brief

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Linda Sue Park

A Long Walk to Water

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

South Sudan • 1980s

Theme
Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park alternates between the stories of Salva, a "Lost Boy" of Sudan forced to flee his village during the Second Sudanese Civil War, and Nya, a young Nuer girl who must walk hours each day to fetch water. Both characters' journeys highlight themes of perseverance and the importance of family, eventually intersecting when Salva returns to Sudan as a well-digger, bringing clean water to Nya's village. The book includes descriptions of war violence and the impacts of waterborne diseases.

Inspirational

Challenging

Emotional

Hopeful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.5

117,404 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park receives praise for its compelling, dual narrative structure, engaging both younger and adult readers. Critics highlight its emotional depth and educational value, effectively raising awareness about Sudan's history and the water crisis. Some note the book's simplicity may underwhelm those seeking complex plots. Overall, it's a resonant, impactful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Long Walk to Water?

A reader who would enjoy A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park is typically interested in historical novels, stories about survival, and books that highlight resilience and hope amidst adversity. Fans of I Am Malala or The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind will find this narrative compelling and inspiring.

4.5

117,404 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

South Sudan • 1980s

Theme
Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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