Synopsis
Continues the story of Mina Smiles
In a village in Asia, Mina and her husband Jai, neither of whom can read or write, tend to the fields and raise their five children. When Jai is suddenly struck by severe stomach pain, Mina frantically seeks medicine but struggles to find a suitable container among the many options. She decides to bring an empty bottle to the local clinic. Upon seeing it, the doctor is shocked, recognizing it as a pesticide container rather than a medicine bottle. Once back home, Mina recounts what happened and openly expresses her desire to join literacy classes. The story highlights the challenges faced by illiterate individuals in Asia and the Pacific, emphasizing the vital importance of literacy.
In this installment
Mina's tranquil village starts experiencing small disturbances that upset the usual order. One evening, Mina's household gets sick from food poisoning after consuming contaminated fish caught from the river. Later that night, a heavy downpour causes flooding, letting polluted river water seep into the village well. The family's condition deteriorates further when they ingest medicine prepared with the untreated well water. Identifying the true source of her family's sickness, Mina resolves to take action to enhance the village's environmental situation.
