Inspiring Fiction for Teens: Brave Water

Leslea Wahl reviews Brave Water, Sarah Robsdottir's story of one day in the life of a teenage girl in a remote African village.

Brave Water by Sarah Robsdottir 

Review: 

Brave Water is a moving tale about a single day in the life of a teenage girl from a remote African village. This book highlights many difficult topics that sadly are daily struggles for many people around the world. The unique story is told through multiple viewpoints, as well as numerous flashbacks, but mainly unfolds from Talitha’s point of view. During her long daily trek to the only fresh water source for her village, Talitha experiences a day that completely alters her life.  

In this one story the author skillfully highlights the life-saving importance of clean drinking water, the horrors of human trafficking, the vital yet dangerous role of Christian missionaries, the brutality and corruption of wealthy mine owners, heart-breaking poverty, and the beautifully rich culture of an African village.  

Living in an abundance of food, water, and medicine, it can be easy to forget that there are still places in this world that have none of that. The author has created an intriguing story that doesn’t shy away from these difficult topics but addresses them in a sensitive way at a teen level. Brave Water is a gripping story about redemption, forgiveness, love, and faith that will stay with you for a very long time.  

Summary: 

 
Girls are disappearing on their way to the spring ... 

Will fear stop Talitha, the sole water gatherer for her hut, from searching for her friend—even if it means scaling the walls of the mine owners' compound, where locals are shot on sight? 

And will terror block Moses’ path—or can this teenage hunter battle an underground human trafficking ring with ties to the cities on the other side of Great Mountain? 

Join Talitha and Moses on their journey, one marked with violent drug lords, crippling jealousy, blinding anger, but also … tremendous beauty. And, the flutters of first love. 

Meet other villagers and colorful characters along the way, all of whom are grappling with dire loss after a recent mine explosion. Become acquainted with multiple generations of a missionary family who sacrificed all, moving out to the African bush to fulfill a driving passion—one that most would call a crazy dream. Listen, as ageless questions are carried in on the hot winds of the Great Red Valley: Do you know what it means to truly be brave? And, what if you had to risk your life for a simple cup of water? 

Dive into Brave Water and decide! 

Copyright 2023 Leslea Wahl
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