A Long Walk to Water

by Linda Sue Park

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Student Question

Why does the author tell Nya's story first in each chapter of A Long Walk to Water?

Quick answer:

The author begins each chapter with Nya's story to ground readers in the present and tie Salva's experiences to contemporary times. Nya's simpler, shorter story helps engage readers and often reflects themes in Salva's narrative, providing a "sneak peek" of what's to come. Additionally, Nya's sections build mystery, as the connection between her and Salva's stories is revealed only at the novel's end, maintaining intrigue throughout.

Expert Answers

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There really isn't a "wrong" answer to this question, but here are a few possible interpretations:

Nya's story grounds the reader in the present, so beginning each chapter with her story could help the reader tie Salva's experience to the present day.

Nya's story is also more "simple" in many ways, which makes it shorter. Beginning each chapter with a short scene about Nya helps to invest the reader in the events to come. Similarly, Nya's portions often reflect a theme in the part of Salva's story that follows, which also gives the reader a "sneak peek" that keeps you reading on.

Nya's story also presents a bit of mystery, as we don't find out how the two narratives are connected until the end of the novel. Inserting a bit about her in the beginning of each chapter could also be a way to continue building the mystery in a consistent yet still enthralling way.

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