Imagine a long bridge woven over generations from the roots of rubber-fig trees. The child who narrates this story lives in the mountains of northeastern India, where their living bridge, called Jingkieng Jri, crosses high above a rushing river. It is home to insects, birds, and worms and is strong enough to weather considerable foot traffic and the worst of storms.
The child now starts to study this craft of bridge weaving, savoring the sound of the river and the thought of all the hands that have tended the bridge for four hundred years or more. "It seems our Jingkieng Jri can live on forever," he observes. So what can he do when he discovers plastic litter on the bridge and scars where people have stolen the white sap to sell?
Written for readers ages four to eight, this book offers a fictional account of real-life wonders and concerns about maintaining them. It includes a note from Morningstar Khongthaw, founder and Chairman of the Living Bridge Foundation, about his initiative to save these gifts of indigenous technology. He hopes that "the living roots of love, unity, and cooperation with nature will grow in all our hearts."
A message from author Sandhya Acharya follows. She writes:
"Over the years, some of the bridges have faced neglect and suffered the strain of increased tourism. Conservationists are working on spreading awareness among students, locals, and tourists. Cleaning drives are regularly organized to make sure the bridges are preserved, stay strong, and continue to multiply." She encourages readers to help spread awareness by talking to others about what impresses them about living bridges and to consider supporting organizations like the Living Bridge Foundation.
A glossary and pronunciation guide, photos, and a selected bibliography complete this inspiring book.
