The Queen of Water Review

304 pages

Born in an Andean village in Ecuador, Virginia lives with her large family in a small, earthen-walled dwelling. In her village of indígenas, it is not uncommon to work in the fields all day, even as a child, or to be called a longa tonta—stupid Indian—by members of the ruling class of mestizos, or Spanish descendants. When seven-year-old Virginia is taken from her village to be a servant to a mestizo couple, she has no idea what the future holds. In this poignant novel based on a true story, acclaimed author Laura Resau has collaborated with María Virginia Farinango to recount one girl's unforgettable journey to self-discovery. Virginia's story will speak to anyone who has ever struggled to find his or her place in the world. It will make you laugh and cry, and ultimately, it will fill you with hope.

Review:
I absolutely loved this book. The twists and turns that Virginia's life takes is an amazing journey of self discovery. This story is even more amazing since it is based on a true story. It's sad that something like this had to happen to Virginia but at the same time she persevered and became a better woman for it. Laura Resau did an amazing job telling this story. I was never quite sure what would happen next in Virginia's story or if she would ever see her family again. The way that Virginia was kept down and frightened by the mestizo couple that took her is terrible. The fact that she was abused and basically a slave since she wasn't paid is even worse. I am glad that this story was given a voice and I recommend it to anyone who wants to read something that will inspire them in life.