Innovative Book Highlights the Impact of Water Scarcity on Education and Opportunity

In anticipation of World Water Day on March 22, global nonprofit Water For People has introduced The Dehydrating Book, an inventive storytelling medium designed to bring attention to the devastating effects of the water crisis in Latin America. This unique book employs hydrochromic ink, which allows its pages to become visible only when hydrated. Once the water evaporates, the story disappears, creating a powerful reminder of the vital connection between water access, education, and opportunity.

Inspired by the experiences of students from Palmira, a village in Peru’s Cascas Valley, The Dehydrating Book tells the story of Lupita, a thirsty hummingbird who embarks on a journey to find water for herself and her friends. Lupita’s quest reflects the reality faced by 1 in 6 children in Latin America’s water-scarce regions and the 447 million children worldwide who lack basic drinking water services at school.

Water scarcity presents significant challenges for students, including illness, absenteeism, and reduced cognitive performance—factors that inhibit learning and development. Mark Duey, CEO of Water For People, emphasizes the importance of addressing this crisis, stating, “A lack of safe water for students leads to barriers that prevent children from learning and reaching their full potential.”

Water For People has been working in Peru since 2008, employing its Everyone Forever model to ensure lasting water and sanitation access for schools, families, and health clinics. Beyond infrastructure development, the organization partners with educators to integrate water, sanitation, and hygiene practices into school curriculums, equipping students with knowledge to improve community awareness. Across Latin America, this approach has provided nearly 300,000 people with sustainable water services.

The release of The Dehydrating Book is accompanied by a short video that delves into its production process, storyline, and the perspectives of the children who helped shape its narrative. Water For People encourages individuals everywhere to recognize their role in addressing water challenges, underscoring that access to water is not just a necessity but a fundamental human right.

To learn more about Water For People’s initiatives and the communities featured in the campaign, visit waterforpeople.org/thedehydratingbook.