PLOT SUMMARY
Bree and her dad move to a new city, and she can’t wait to start school and join the math club! But it is full and the only thing available is swim class…but Bree doesn’t know how to swim! Her new school “almost won first at state” years ago and they want Bree to help them get there again. Will she overcome her fear of the water and help her team win state?

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Christmas has jumped into the deep end of the pool to expose the history of swimming for Black Americans in his debut novel but treats it with such finesse that old and young will learn something but not realize it because the reader is too busy cheering on Bree and her friends. The illustrations are rich in color and keep you focused on the characters, while also giving a rich background for them to “live” in. Christmas has done is research on the sport of swimming and what it takes to learn, even when you are scared. The theme of facing your fears and overcoming them is repeated throughout. The only thing that bothers me (as a swimmer and a swim coach) is that the Medley Relay is called the Relay Medley throughout the book. I highly recommend this book with its message that continuously making small steps forward will carry you through your goals.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
2022 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor
2022 National Book Award Longlist
2022 Kirkus Best Book of the Year
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “…The work presents an opportunity for readers to reflect on both typical childhood issues as well as the systemic issues the United States has faced for centuries such as the lack of access to pools and resources for Black athletes. Rich with images and references to Black culture, this text will serve as a mirror and window for readers.”

KIRKUS REVIEWS: ““Problem-solving through perseverance and friendship is the real win in this deeply smart and inspiring story.” 

CONNECTIONS
*Students can write about a time when they overcame a fear or obstacle of some kind.
*Look for other stories about overcoming obstacles:
Fisher, J. SOUR LEMON AND SWEET TEA. PixieDust for Young Readers, 2023. ISBN 979-8988240907
Garcia, G. I CAN DO HARD THINGS. Ill. by Russell, C. Skinned Knee Publishing, 2018. ISBN 978-0998958088