Follow the Water: The Unbelievable True Story of a Teenager’s Survival in the Amazon

Gr 6-9–In 1971, Juliane Koepcke, 17, lived through a terrifying event when the airplane she was on ran into an unexpected thunderstorm and broke apart midair. Juliane, strapped into her seat, fell two miles through the air only to find herself injured and alone in an isolated part of the dense Peruvian Amazon rainforest. As the daughter of scientists, Koepcke had been taught from a young age about the ever-present dangers from both plants and animals in the Amazon. Undoubtedly, these lessons contributed to her survival. Remembering her father’s advice, if lost, follow the water ­because a waterway would eventually lead to people, Koepcke walked for 11 days before she found help. The third-person narration details Koepcke’s perspective. Insets ­provide scientific information about animals encountered, ­environmental conditions, and what happens to planes in storms. The background story of Koepcke’s German-born parents, who lived and worked in Peru, is fascinating, as well as Koepcke’s adult accomplishments as a scientist and determined protector of the Amazon. Back matter includes a guide to Panguana and the rainforest, a section on “How to Become a Scientist,” bibliography, and further reading suggestions.