1. A drop in the bucket: This phrase means "a small and insignificant amount." It is used in the book when the protagonist, Mia, realizes that her actions have had little impact on the larger scheme of things.
2. Once in a blue moon: This phrase means "very rarely or seldom." It is used in the book to describe the rare occurrence of a specific event or phenomenon.
3. A stitch in time saves nine: This phrase means "it is better to take preventive measures now rather than dealing with bigger problems later." It is used in the book to emphasize the importance of addressing issues early on.
4. You can't judge a book by its cover: This phrase means "you cannot make assumptions about someone or something based on their appearance alone." It is used in the book to remind the reader that people are often more complex and multifaceted than they seem.
5. The grass is always greener on the other side: This phrase means "people tend to believe that things are better elsewhere, even when they are not." It is used in the book to explore the protagonist's dissatisfaction with her current situation and her desire for something different.
6. A leopard cannot change its spots: This phrase means "people's essential characteristics are unlikely to change." It is used in the book to describe a character who is unable to overcome their flaws or negative tendencies.
7. A drowning man will clutch at straws: This phrase means "in desperate situations, people will do anything to save themselves." It is used in the book to describe the protagonist's desperation to escape from her difficult circumstances.