Thirst by Varsha Bajaj

One of my friends asked me last week if I had read the Global Read Aloud section for this year- Thirst.  Since I've not read ANY  young adult books this summer, I thought I should probably pick it up.  

Thirst is a fairly easy read.  It is the story of Minni, a girl in grade 8 who lives in Mumbai.  Her family has very little money, but work very hard.  Each day, just getting water is an ordeal.  Her mother has to line up early in the morning in the hopes that she can get enough water to carry back home for her family.  There are times when there isn't enough water and there are thieves who steal the water and then sell it back to the community at a very high price.  One night, Minni sees this theft taking place which puts her and her family at risk.  As events play out, Minni begins to realize that in some homes in Mumbai, there is an abundance of water - in taps, toilets and even a swimming pool. Minni learns about how some people in some neighbourhoods don't warrant fresh running water, while others who can afford many luxuries, have water easily accessible.    

I enjoyed reading this story, I liked learning about life in Mumbai and it really made me think about water and how much of an impact not having it has on the people.  I can see late Junior classes really enjoying this story.  You can check out the Facebook group here for other classrooms reading this book in the Fall of 2022.

 

On the Line by Paul Coccia and Eric Walters

Well...Eric Walters has knocked it out of the park again with his newest book.  On the Line was written by both Paul Coccia and Eric Walters, but it didn't ever seem like it was written by two different authors.  

On the Line is a story about Jordan, a boy in grade 8 who loves basketball.  He has a great relationship with his parents, although he is frustrated by all of the fights they have.  The one thing he knows is that they are very supportive of his basketball, his parents attend his games and his father often coaches and plays against Jordan and his best friend Junior.  When his parents decide to separate, Jordan is upset, he misses his family and having his dad around all the time.  Then, he finds out his father is dating a man and Jordan needs to come to terms with this new reality.    

This story brings up so many important issues that need to be spoken about.  Being 13 isn't easy for anyone, but adding a divorce and learning that a family member has been hiding who they really are makes life that much more complicated. Jordan learns some very important lessons through his basketball team and his friends.  

I can't wait to share this with kids in the fall!  I know many students who are going to love it!