Displaced

Gr 4-6–In a time of polarizing political issues, what unites people? Ochieng shows readers that hope and working together as a community can see people through. During violent protests following Kenya’s 2007 presidential elections, Kimathi’s quiet suburban life is shattered when his father is murdered and their home is burned. Kimathi, 14, along with his mother and younger sister Ngina, flee for their lives, finally finding shelter in a Kenyan camp for internally displaced persons. But the camp is no haven; residents self-segregate and basic necessities are scarce—especially water. It’s brought into the camp by ruthless water-sellers, always overpriced and often contaminated. Despite his daily struggles, Kimathi makes a caring circle of friends with funny, distinct personality traits readers will recognize in their own friends. Adults are nuanced supporting characters, providing guidance and encouragement to the novel’s young protagonists. The plot takes off when Kimathi and his friends decide to solve the camp’s water problem by getting water tanks installed and arranging for regular deliveries of clean, fairly priced water. Readers will be inspired by the children’s courage and perseverance, taking action when adults fail to do so and uniting the camp through the shared need for water.