Hope Springs

Gr 1-3--Based on actual events, this story is one of strength and kindness in the face of fear. During a drought in Mbooni District, Kenya, children at the local orphanage were confronted and refused water by local villagers. Young Boniface creates understanding with his compassion and sharing of a new idea, which jump-starts a joint project between all locals and a new source of water. "When you have water, you have life." The title refers to the new well built at Kyamutuo Spring but also describes the change of heart that occurs among the villagers. Text font may be small, but the art is expressively large. A series of spreads gives readers a view of Boniface's world, adding rich colors and patterns of folk art. With the addition of the author's "Story Behind the Story," the facts of the origin of Hope Springs allow a retelling of the story through a personal narrative with the aid of photography, a map, and additional explanation. A general purchase for all libraries.--Mary Elam, Learning Media Services, Plano ISD, TX