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Water has a special importance in this book. The author uses it to indicate the effects of climate change, as well as the symbolic importance to India. On this page, we will provide a little more background into the importance water has in the book.
Water in literature often represents purity, life, or change. In Hinduism, water is especially significant - the Ganges river in particular. Are there scenes in Kabir's story in which water seems especially significant?
The Ganges is important to India for more than it's spiritual significance. It's also the main water source for many.
The creation story told here features the Ganges River.
Since the Ganges is heavily used for daily life and religious rituals, it is significantly polluted.
Kabir notices moments where water seems to be at the center of unrest in the places he's visiting. In her author's note, Venkatraman explains that droughts and water shortages are becoming more common and causing unrest. Check out these resources on water concerns in India and California.
In her author's note, Venkatraman references this article that relates to the unrest she includes in the book.
If you're interested in learning more about water and climate change, check out our collection on Destiny Discover.
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Child Poverty Prison Systems India Water Empathy Padma Venkatraman