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

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

PRAISE FOR My Name Is Blessing

"This expressive picture book, based on a real family, lovingly tells a hard story with a twist.
It's difficult to broach poverty, disability and custody issues in so few pages without sounding maudlin, but Walters manages by speaking simply.... With dignity and quiet acceptance, this story illustrates that blessings, like family, can take unexpected forms."
- Starred Review, Kirkus Reviews

"Lyrical language is matched by expressive acrylic illustrations that capture the emotional text."
- School Library Journal