White Water

by Michael S. Bandy and Eric Stein

"Inspired by a true story"

Michael lives in a world where he must stand up if a white family wants a seat at the bus stop, must climb on the bus and pay and then get off to reenter again by the back door. when he gets hot and thirsty from his trip with his grandma, he goes to the "Colored" fountain to take a drink, only to find that the water tastes dark, muddy, and dirty. He sees his schoolmate drinking long and freely from the "White" fountain, and Michael begins to imagine what that water must taste like. He becomes obsessed about knowing what the difference is, and finally sneaks off to get a forbidden taste. Imagine his surprise when he learns that the water tastes the same, both fountains coming from the same rusty pipe. Michael learns a lesson that changes his life forever.

This story is simplistic enough that it will raise just the right questions with any age child. The illustrations are beautiful, and careful attention should be paid to the final page where we see the images that can inspire Michael's future. This is a must read.