Summary
A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park is a book for young readers telling the intertwined stories of two Sudanese children. Set against the backdrop of the Second Sudanese Civil War, the novel uses a dual narrative, alternating between the true story of Salva Dut, starting in 1985, and the fictional account of Nya, starting in 2008. Salva, one of the Lost Boys of Sudan, escapes conflict and hardship. Nya, a serious young girl, undertakes daily journeys to fetch water. Their stories converge to reveal the significant impact of clean water while emphasizing the power of human perseverance and the possibility for empathy and change.
Plot
A Long Walk to Water follows the stories of Salva Dut and Nya, set in different timelines. In 1985, Salva's journey begins when civil war erupts in his South Sudanese village. Separated from his family, Salva joins other refugees and faces dangers, including the loss of his friend Marial, who is suspected to have been killed by a lion. Salva receives guidance from Uncle Jewiir, whose leadership gives hope until his untimely death.
Salva leads a group across the Akobo desert, where they share limited resources with those near death. After arriving at a refugee camp in Ethiopia, Salva eventually leads the Lost Boys to Kenya and later resettles in the U.S. In 2003, he returns to Sudan to help build wells, intersecting with Nya's life.
Nya's story unfolds in 2008, detailing her efforts to collect water. Her situation improves with a new well in her village, a project led by Salva. This development not only provides clean water but also reduces tribal tensions, connecting their stories with themes of hope and change.
Characters
Salva Dut: An 11-year-old boy from the Dinka tribe, Salva is the central figure in the book and a real person. He represents the experiences of South Sudan's Lost Boys. Through perseverance, he later founds Water for South Sudan, an organization that provides clean water to South Sudanese communities.
Nya: A fictional young girl from the Nuer tribe who, in 2008, walks daily to fetch unsafe water. Her life changes when a well is installed in her village. This connects her story to Salva's real-world efforts.
Uncle Jewiir: A former Sudanese army member who supports Salva on his journey to Ethiopia.
