A Story of Survival

Not a Drop to Drink by Mindy McGinnis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Water is precious. Without water they say a person can live for only 3 to 10 days. Have you ever thought of what you would do if your supply of water suddenly was gone? No? Maybe you ought to, because it could happen.

NOT A DROP TO DRINK, the YA debut novel of Author Mindy McGinnis, deals with protecting the water supply of sixteen-year-old Lynn and her mother, as well as other troubles that confront them. When Lynn’s mother is killed, Lynn is left on her own to preserve the pond in their backyard from those who would take it for their own. From the time she was nine years old Lynn has known how to kill to protect not only their water but their home, as well. Survival depends on it. Can she do it alone?

The author has given each character in NOT A DROP TO DRINK a distinct personality that makes the reader care for them. Lynn has not grown up like a normal teenager. Her life has been one of survival. Death is always nearby, waiting for one mistake, for one unguarded moment. Who can Lynn trust, besides her mother? Stebbs, the old man that lives nearby, is one of my favorite characters. He does what he can for Lynn, who is fiercely independent. Then there’s little Lucy, five years old, whose story will touch your heart, and also sixteen-year-old Eli, who brings new thoughts and ideas to Lynn.

NOT A DROP TO DRINK is a story of survival, family, friendship, and love. It’s also a story of hate, greed, murder, and men that strive to achieve their goals no matter the cost. Some scenes are graphic, but necessary. This is not a light read. Ms. McGinnis’ novel will haunt you as you consider the possibility that the events in her book could happen. A must read for not only YA readers, but also for adults. I highly recommend it.
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