The water takes by Sarah Walker

In a world of cavernous sinkholes opening in the ground, swallowing people and buildings, and water sloshing everywhere, two unlikely friends are thrown together: the cantankerous old recently widowed, Pam, and the curious spark of a ten year-old girl, Charlotte. When Charlotte’s home disappears, Pam has no option but to care for Charlotte, finding food, and protecting her from marauding looters.

But gradually the roles are reversed as Pam's mind starts to drift, and Charlotte, eager to find friendship and safety, has to overcome the fears of the old woman and find her own solutions. It is a beautiful story of love and kindness in a chaotic dystopian world.

Sarah Walker says that she likes writing about ‘anxiety, intimacy and absurdity’. Her debut novel is both menacing thriller and tender story of friendship. It’s one of those books that will stay with you long afterwards.

Themes: Dystopia, Human nature, Ageing, Youth, Optimism, Caring.

Helen Eddy