The Water Princess by [Verde, Susan, Badiel, Georgie]

How many times have you turned on your water faucets today? If you’re like me, it’s been too many to count, and it isn’t even 9:00 AM yet. Imagine having to wake up every morning hours before the sun rises to walk miles with a jar to collect water at the nearest water source. I know most of us are aware of areas of the world that struggle with water shortages, but if you’re like me, your brain holds facts that don’t always engage your heart. Reading The Water Princess made the connection for me in a visceral way.

I came across the book at my grandson’s book fair in November, and I was drawn to it because of the beautiful art work. Once I scanned the pages, I knew I had to buy it, but after I read it, I went back and bought several more copies.  The book is based on supermodel Georgie Badel’s childhood in Burkina Faso, Africa. Ms. Faso has a foundation whose mission is to provide sustainable sources of water and sanitation to her home country. She tells her story better than I could, so I encourage you to watch the video I’ve embedded below and then purchase the book.