Introduction

“A Long Walk to Water” by Linda Sue Park is a compelling novel that tells two interwoven stories of perseverance, survival, and hope. This book is based on true events and follows the journey of Salva Dut, one of Sudan’s Lost Boys, as well as a fictionalized account of Nya, a young girl struggling to access clean water. Through its powerful storytelling, the book highlights the harsh realities of war, displacement, and the significance of water.

Name of PDF	A Long Walk to Water
No Pages	93
Author	Linda Sue Park
Published	November 15, 2010
Language	English
Genres	Novel, Fiction
Size	1.38 MB
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About the Author – Linda Sue Park

Linda Sue Park is an award-winning author known for her works that focus on historical and cultural themes. Born in 1960, she has written numerous books for young readers, including the Newbery Medal-winning “A Single Shard.” Her ability to weave real-world issues into engaging narratives makes her a significant voice in children’s literature.

Summary of “A Long Walk to Water”

The novel alternates between two different timelines:

• Salva Dut’s Story (1985): Salva is an 11-year-old boy caught in the horrors of the Sudanese Civil War. Forced to flee his village, he embarks on a perilous journey across Sudan, Ethiopia, and Kenya, enduring hunger, fear, and loneliness. Eventually, he finds refuge in the U.S. and later returns to help his homeland.
• Nya’s Story (2008): Nya is a young girl who walks for hours daily to fetch water for her family. Her story illustrates the struggles of many in Sudan who lack access to clean water. Eventually, her village benefits from a well, changing their lives forever.

Themes and Messages in the Book

Survival and Perseverance

Both Salva and Nya endure extreme hardships but never give up. Their resilience teaches readers the power of determination.

The Importance of Water

Water is a central theme, symbolizing both survival and hope. The book highlights the struggles faced by communities without clean water access.

War and Displacement

The Sudanese Civil War uprooted millions, and Salva’s story represents the struggles of many children who became refugees.

Hope and Resilience

Despite the suffering, the story conveys a message of hope. Salva’s journey from refugee to humanitarian showcases the impact of kindness and perseverance.

Character Analysis

Salva Dut

Salva transforms from a frightened child into a leader dedicated to helping others. His character arc is both inspiring and deeply moving.

Nya

Nya’s struggles reflect the daily reality of many girls in Africa. Her story underscores the significance of water accessibility.

Supporting Characters

Characters like Uncle Jewiir and the people who help Salva shape his journey and emphasize human kindness.

Historical Context and Real-Life Inspiration

The book is based on true events surrounding the Sudanese Civil War and the Lost Boys of Sudan. Salva Dut’s real-life efforts led to the founding of “Water for South Sudan,” which has helped bring clean water to many villages.

Conclusion

“A Long Walk to Water” is a powerful and educational novel that sheds light on the struggles of war and water scarcity. It is an inspiring read that encourages empathy, perseverance, and action.

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