Inspired by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe’s 2016 public rally against the Dakota Access Pipeline that was polluting their region’s water and sacred burial grounds, “We Are Water Protectors” is a heartfelt cry to safeguard the earth’s water from harm.
In strong, clear-cut language; the pride with which author Carole Lindstrom delivers her message is palpable. She is after all a Native American Ojibwe, in whose culture women are “protectors of the water.”
Michaela Goade supplies the outstanding artworks. Taught that “life is inextricably tied to water,” she was raised on the beaches of Southeast Alaska and is a member of the Tlingit and Haida tribes. Her broad sweeping strokes, rounded forms and lush blue/greens, reds and purples serve as companion, and at times, counterpoint to Lindstrom’s no-nonsense language.
Goade’s illustrations for “We Are Water Protectors” won the 2021 Caldecott Medal, given yearly by the Association for Library Service to Children to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children. Goade is the first Native American to win the award.
Written by Carole Lindstrom & Illustrated by Michaela Goade. Published by Roaring Brook Press.
