This is a highly readable short book; a political, ecological and cultural fable as a young girl and her father on a small island are confronted with the reality and cruelty of global market forces when the local well and water supply are annexed. For support they call upon the mythical powers of the manatee, a creature who we learn is the girl's mother.

The book is illustrated by Easington based artist Nicola Balfour whose artwork was on display at the IRON in the Soul Festival, where The Water Thief had its official launch.

Kitty Fitzgerald has written plays for stage and radio, and has published four novels, including Pigtopia (Faber), which has been translated into 27 languages. IRON Press also published her short story collection Miranda's Shadow.