Water in Africa is essential for life for both humans and animals. Humans use river water for drinking, cooking, bathing, washing clothes and watering crops. River of Life illustrates how children play an integral role in the family's survival by making a long, often dangerous, trek every day to fetch water from the river. The story begins with the dry season (where water is scarce) and concludes with the restoration of life as the rain brings the wet season. River of Life is the second book in the Beautiful Africa series. The allure of Africa calls us all. The Beautiful Africa series mixes the simplicity of the people with the complexity of the various cultures while maintaining the authenticity of the harsh reality of life in Africa. It reminds us all of our deepest roots as human beings. Ms. Lehan and Mr. Ngo love sharing their fascination with Africa, particularly with children.