"It's so hard
to stay silent
when you have
important things
to say.
Important things
that everyone
stays silent
about."
Life for 11-year-old Latika, and the other girls and women of her Indian comunity, is very different than what happens for the boys and men. She is not free to enjoy free days; rather, she spends much of each day taking long walks for water. In the evening, she and her sister weave baskets to be sold. They also join the females of the village on a walk to do their business in a darkened field where no one can see them. There are no toilets for them. The moon feels like an enemy, as its light illuminates their Shame, and Latika would like to bury it.
Latika can still attend school where she finds much joy. Her time is running short, as the day she turns twelve she will no longer be welcome to attend. She longs for changes that will bring some happiness to her family members. No one talks about the Shame. So, when a government engineer arrives to discuss digging a well, Latika realizes that change can happen. Courageously, she finds a way to speak to Mister Samir. He agrees to listen to what she has to say.
Once the well is dug and providing the life-giving water needed, the government workers move on. Later, when least expected, other engineers return to the village with the materials they need to build toilets. Mister Samir has recognized the villagers' needs thanks to Latika's bravery and intelligence. Life changes for everyone.
This awe-inspiring novel-in-verse imparts information to its readers about the struggle that 4.2 billion people around the world face, concerning proper health and hygiene. It is an issue that can be changed through education, concern, and money. Not that much money, actually. What do we, who have so much, do to change the circumstances for so many? Awareness is the key.
Sonali Zohra's digital illustrations are bold in color and setting, adding depth and context for the story told. Beautiful!
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