We Are Water Protectors
(Caldecott Medal Winner)
Roaring Brook Press 2020
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Themes include environmental stewardship
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Genre
Themes
- environmental stewardship
- Indigenous rights and culture
- activism and community
- courage
- respect for nature
- identity and heritage
- hope
- responsibility
About this book
This lyrical picture book follows a young Indigenous girl who stands up to protect the water that connects and sustains us all. Inspired by real Indigenous-led movements, it uses powerful imagery and rhythmic text to show how even one voice can spark change. Bold, flowing illustrations draw children into the natural world and the idea of caring for it. Perfect for reading aloud, it invites families to talk about stewardship, community, and taking action with heart.
Setting: contemporary Indigenous lands and the natural world (rivers, lakes, and forests) across North America
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is We Are Water Protectors right for my child?
Yes — We Are Water Protectors is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.9, which is typical for 2nd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include environmental stewardship, Indigenous rights and culture, activism and community.
How long does it take to read We Are Water Protectors?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, We Are Water Protectors takes around 5m to finish. The book has 550 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does We Are Water Protectors have an AR quiz?
Yes — We Are Water Protectors has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is We Are Water Protectors?
We Are Water Protectors has an AR reading level of 2.9, which places it at a 2nd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.