65 pages • 2 hours read
Linda Sue ParkA Long Walk to Water
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
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.
Reviews & Readership
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 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.