Grade 3 · Class Reads · Book guide
The Water Walker
by Joanne Robertson
This illustrated true story follows Nokomis Josephine Mandamin as she walks around the Great Lakes to raise awareness of the responsibility to respect and protect water.
Book details
Format
Picture-book nonfiction
Suggested age range
Ages 6–8
Why read it together?
A book worth talking about
Anishinaabe author and illustrator Joanne Robertson presents an Indigenous water protector's work in accessible language. The book connects literacy, community action, and care for the environment.
- Water protection
- Responsibility
- Community action
- Anishinaabe knowledge
Before reading
Get ready to wonder
- How does water support people, animals, and plants each day?
- What can one person's actions teach a whole community?
During and after reading
Talk about the text
- What is the main reason Josephine walks, and which details show her commitment?
- How do the words and pictures work together to communicate the importance of Nibi?
- What respectful action could your class take to care for water?
Writing invitation
Respond to the book
Write a short message explaining one way people can respect and protect water. Support your idea with a detail from the book.