The Queen of Water is a beautiful story of human strength and the search for identity. Living in an impoverished Andean village in Ecuador, at the age of seven Virginia is sold by her family to an upper class mestizo (people of Spanish descent) couple. Virginia struggles with her new life as their servant and becomes trapped in the cycle of an abusive relationship: she suffers verbal and physical abuse yet cannot help but become enamored with the couple’s rich lifestyle and entranced by moments of their praise. Though it is difficult to read about Virginia’s dire situation, the reader is uplifted by Virginia’s strength and power. Virginia is not a person to let anything or anyone stand in her way. Based on the true story of Maria Virginia Farinango’s childhood and adolescence, Resau’s rich imagery and eloquent phrasing make for a very compelling read.

This novel, inspired by the co-author's own childhood, is a must-read. It tells the story of Virginia, an indigenous girl in Ecuador, who is severed from her family and her roots yet manages to achieve amazing things and reclaim her identity. It's beautiful, heartbreaking, and inspiring all at once.