Told in the dual points of view of mother and daughter A Drop of Ink in a Downpour is a clear eyed look at the reality of life under Communist rule giving readers an insider s perspective on the roots of contemporary Russia But it is also a coming of age story about a budding artist full of beauty and vitality and life Heartfelt moving and funny it is a testament to the unbreakable bond between mothers and daughters and the healing power of art