Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior

A touching ode to Indigenous activists organizing for generations of clean water.

PreS-Gr 3--Honoring the activism of a great aunt, a great niece, and the Indigenous women who are and have been speaking out on behalf of nibi, the word for water in Anishinaabe, this title calls on all readers to engage in this vital environmental work. Lindstrom (We Are Water Protectors) tells the story in poetic and powerful language in the voice of water itself. Readers are reminded of the vital role water plays in all our lives and the history of its degradation. Grandma Josephine (as she was known to many) spoke for the water and began walking miles and miles around the Great Lakes raising awareness for the protection of this precious gift. The call to action has reached to the Seventh Generation with Great-Niece Autumn Peltier, a young Anishinaabe Water Protector. Peltier has carried on the work of speaking out for the role of Indigenous people in climate discussions and has challenged world leaders to do better. Illustrations by George, who is also Anishinaabe, exquisitely capture the message of the story, especially conveying the concept of the seven generations for those in the audience unfamiliar with the future-forward planning. Back matter includes further information, suggested reading, viewing, and websites. Nibi asks at the conclusion, "What will you do for me?" VERDICT A brilliant combination of story, culture, and activism in the cause of protecting the environment. Highly recommended for all collections.--John Scott