We Are Water Protectors written by Carole Lindstrom and illustrated by Michaela Goade.

Reviewed by Isabelle Grant. 

 “Water is the first medicine”

We are Water Protectors is a story inspired by the many Indigenous-led movements across North America. With simple and powerful language alongside breathtaking illustrations, We Are Water Protectors details Indigenous traditions that honor water and recognize it as an incredible life source. Acknowledging this rich history, this book is a rallying-cry to have courage and take stand. 

The book follows a young Indigenous girl as she reminds herself of the stories her family and people have told her, particularly those warning against a black snake that will “destroy the land” “spoil the water,” “poison the plants and animals,” and “wreck everything in its path.” The young girl urges us all to have courage and “fight for those who cannot fight for themselves… the four-legged, the two-legged, the plants, the trees, rivers, lakes, the Earth.” 

With lyrical words that encourage us to recognize the deep beauty and importance of water as well as our innate duty to protect it, We Are Water Protectors is both a celebration and a warning. Through simple words that send a powerful message and vibrant illustrations of bleeding colors, We Are Water Protectors is a captivating read that would engage students across many age groups. While the simple language makes it an appropriate read for younger students, the powerful message behind it can prompt rich discussion among older students as well. 

Centering indigenous ways of life, this book can serve as both a window or mirror, where students are either able to see a new perspective or see themselves and their culture reflected. While We Are Water Protectors is an important read 365 days out of the year, it would also be an excellent story to share on Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This book would serve well as an anchor text to begin discussion around climate justice as well.

We Are Water Protectors’ author and illustrator are both Indigenous women. Carole Lindstrom is Anishinaabe/Métis and an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Ojibwe. Michaela Goade is of Tlingit descent and a member of the Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska.