Where the Water Rises

Young people are living in a time where their imaginations are under assault by narratives that often leave them empty, misdirected, or confused. They are hungry for stories that not only inspire them but anchor them in eternal truths. Where the Water Rises is a story that does exactly that.

Too many of today’s popular fantasies are captivating but ultimately hollow. They highlight individual power, moral ambiguity, and fleeting victories but fail to address the deeper truths about life, sin, and redemption. Books like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter may delight in their world-building, but they rarely offer students a foundation for true hope or an understanding of their place in God’s larger story. Instead, Where the Water Rises harnesses the power of fantasy to point students to the Gospel—the greatest and most powerful story of all.

This is not just another fantasy tale. It is a bold, allegorical narrative that mirrors the Gospel in profound ways. The Water King’s character provides students with a clear and moving picture of Christ and His redemptive work. Jordan’s journey through pain, perseverance, and obedience mirrors the Christian walk—trusting a King even when His plan feels incomprehensible. And the poisoned waters that corrupt the town serve as a haunting reflection of sin’s pervasive grip on our lives. This is a story that grabs the heart and refuses to let go, urging readers to grapple with life’s most essential questions.

But this story doesn’t just teach; it transforms. It immerses students in a world of danger, beauty, and mystery—pulling them into an imaginative landscape where hope wins. It forces them to see the weight of their choices, the beauty of selfless love, and the unfailing goodness of a King who promises victory. These truths are not abstract; they come alive through the characters and their struggles, providing students with a framework for their own lives.

This story is short and accessible, which makes it an inviting tool for classroom use. Its length and clarity mean it can be seamlessly incorporated into a curriculum without overwhelming students, yet it still offers rich layers for deeper reflection. Its allegory encourages discussions on theology, literature, and morality, opening doors to conversations that young people rarely know how to engage with today.

And let’s not ignore the simple truth: our students need hope. Where the Water Rises fills the void left by so many secular stories that offer escapism but no eternal resolution, beauty but no lasting redemption. This story points readers to the ultimate hope found in Christ—a hope that not only endures but triumphs.

This is more than just a book; it’s a tool to stir hearts, ignite imaginations, and inspire faith. It’s a story that shows young people that even in the darkest of places, redemption is possible, and good ultimately prevails over evil.