The power of water isn’t a theme readers typically want to read, but given that so many science and humanities units study it, a correlating novel is an ideal opportunity to deepen understanding.

Odder by Katherine Applegate, ideal for younger middle grade readers, is the story of one otter’s experience in both the wild and at the Monterey, California Aquarium. This is a particularly good match to readers who love animals and those that dream of working with them in the future.

The Canyon’s Edge by Dusti Bowling is a heart-pounding survival adventure about a girl and her father who are separated by a flash flood. Water as a descructive force dovetails any untis about extreme weather.

Thirst by Varsha Bajaj and A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park focuse on the inequality of water resources and the great lengths people go to get it. These books should be read by readers whose emotional maturity has developed enough to handle the intensity of books about social justice issues.