Review of We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom
As I sat down to read We Are Water Protectors, the vivid cover and promise of a narrative that intertwines environmental activism with Indigenous culture instantly drew me in. Carole Lindstrom’s heartfelt storytelling, inspired by real-life events like the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, intrigued me—as someone keenly aware of the critical importance of our planet’s water resources. I could hardly wait to dive into this call-to-action, hoping it would inspire both children and adults alike.
At its core, We Are Water Protectors invokes a passionate and urgent message: water is sacred, and we must defend it. The story follows a young girl who rallies her community against the perils of corporate greed and environmental degradation, embodied by the metaphor of the menacing "black snake." While this anthropomorphic representation of the pipeline is hauntingly powerful, it also raises questions about its appropriateness for sensitive readers. I found myself reflecting on whether this symbolism draws from Native traditions or if it’s a contemporary metaphor—either way, it could evoke strong emotions in younger audiences.
The book’s illustrations are, without a doubt, one of its shining attributes. The art strikes a delicate balance between contemporary vibrancy and traditional aesthetics, resonating with the theme of interconnectedness between Indigenous heritage and modern struggles. While the visuals inspire awe, they also reinforce the significance of the water protectors’ mission, making this a compelling read for children hoping to grasp the importance of environmental stewardship.
However, as much as I appreciate Lindstrom’s impassioned writing and the message it carries, I felt a noticeable gap. While the narrative is a stirring introduction to the concept of activism, it lacks actionable steps for young readers who might want to join the cause. The book concludes with an "Earth Steward and Water Protector Pledge," which is a wonderful sentiment, but I couldn’t help but think of the many specific, age-appropriate strategies that children would benefit from learning.
Children are inherently eager to befriend the earth; they need guidance on how to do so effectively. For example, simple actions like conserving water while brushing teeth, opting for reusable water bottles, or participating in local clean-up efforts could be highlighted more explicitly. It’s essential for a book with such an empowering message to connect the dots and showcase realistic ways for young readers to contribute to the well-being of our planet.
In this vein, I believe the book would have benefited immensely from a back matter section that offered concrete suggestions for children and families to take action. As I read, I found myself wanting to compile my own list of strategies to encourage young environmentalists. Therefore, I’m including some thoughts based on my experiences: engaging in community clean-ups, reducing single-use plastics, and exploring local environmental policies can make a lasting impact, regardless of age.
We Are Water Protectors holds great potential to inspire generations to come, blending vital themes of Indigenous rights, environmental urgency, and community action. While some nuances may be missed by younger readers, the fundamental understanding it provides about the sacredness of water is invaluable. I sincerely hope this book sparks conversations among families, teachers, and all lovers of nature.
For any parent, educator, or child eager to dive into the world of environmental activism, this book is a treasure trove of inspiration. If you enjoyed Lindstrom’s work, I also recommend checking out The Water Walker by Joanne Robertson, which beautifully explores similar themes.
In the end, it’s important for any aspiring water protector to remember: every small choice contributes to the health of our planet. So let’s keep the conversation going! What steps do you take to be a water protector in your everyday life?
Thank you for exploring We Are Water Protectors with me. I’d love to hear your thoughts or any additional strategies for preserving our precious resources!
