On April 21, 1956, a five-year-old girl was examined at a hospital in Minamata, Japan. Doctors were puzzled by her symptoms which included difficulty walking and speaking and severe convulsions. Days later, her sister came down with the same symptoms. Soon after, more people were found with the same illness. What was causing this devastating disease? “Toxic Water: Minamata, Japan” traces the tragic story of toxic wastewater from a factory that poisoned an entire Japanese town. Fascinating photos of the actual events, maps, and fact boxes enrich the compelling text. The personal and heart-breaking story will grip and inspire young readers.
