Rules of Survival Review: A Glimpse into the Lives of Street Children

In 2011, Chris Lockhart, an American anthropologist, and Daniel Mulilo Chama, a Zambian outreach worker, met at a conference that would change the course of their careers. They shared a common frustration – there was a lack of literature that accurately captured the daily experiences of street children. This realization led to the creation of 'Walking the Bowl,' a groundbreaking work of anthropological nonfiction.

Unlike other novelistic narratives about urban poverty, such as Katherine Boo's 'Behind the Beautiful Forevers: Life, Death, and Hope in a Mumbai Undercity,' Lockhart and Chama aimed to create a more immersive experience. They spent years meticulously recording the daily lives of street children, weaving together vivid characters, and crafting a narrative that flows like a novel.

Street children are often misunderstood as orphans, but in reality, they have been sent out by their families to earn money, knowing that they will likely face exploitation and abuse. In many cities, these children are forced to beg at intersections, struggling to survive while well-fed adults pass them by. It's difficult to comprehend a society where children are treated as disposable goods.

'Rules of survival' become essential for street children, who must adapt quickly to the harsh realities of their environment. They learn to navigate the complex web of relationships between themselves and the police, the authorities that represent the adult world in their lives. Lusabilo's question – what would this death mean in the equation between street children and the police? – highlights the precarious balance between survival and danger.

'Walking the Bowl' offers a candid portrayal of life on the streets, challenging readers to confront the harsh realities faced by these vulnerable children. Lockhart and Chama's work is a testament to the power of anthropological storytelling, providing a platform for street children to share their stories and reclaim their humanity. This review serves as a reminder that there are still many rules of survival to be written, and it is our responsibility to listen and amplify the voices of those who have been marginalized.

Rules of survival review