Deep Water: A Story of Survival

Gr 4–7—A gripping tale of survival in the open water of the Gulf Coast. Twelve-year-old Julie Sims spends her summers helping her father run his dive shop in Alabama. When Julie's father rediscovers a secret artificial reef, he and Julie are excited to take clients out for dives. Their first clients are the wealthy, entitled Mr. Jordan and his spoiled son Shane. When Julie's dad, a diabetic, feels too ill to dive, they decide Julie will supervise the Jordans, breaking the first rule of scuba diving: if it doesn't feel right, don't go down. When the boat's anchor gives way, Julie, Mr. Jordan, and Shane are left stranded. Key's novel is fast-paced and action-packed. The short chapters and escalating events will entice and entertain fans of the survival genre. Others may find the characterization flat and the plot overly simple. Some readers may find the scenario or behavior of adult characters implausible or even ridiculous. Despite these flaws, the book offers interesting facts about scuba diving and the Gulf Coast.