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careinthelibrary's review
fast-paced
3.0
This is cute and emotional. I liked the way Christmas used history to motivate the characters. It was a great method to introduce civil rights and segregation into a contemporary story about a swim team. This also touches on themes of classism, parent/child relationships, and friendship.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Classism, Racism, Body shaming, and Medical content
Minor: Death and Vomit
betweentheshelves's review against another edition
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This was fantastic! I loved the way that history was woven into this story. Bree's confidence grows throughout the book; she meets an amazing new friend group who also helps her. But of course, they're not without the typical turbulence of middle school friendships. It also felt so realistic and well written.
The art was also great! It felt reminiscent of New Kid by Jerry Craft, and middle graders who love that will definitely love this one as well!
The art was also great! It felt reminiscent of New Kid by Jerry Craft, and middle graders who love that will definitely love this one as well!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Medical content, and Racism
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders, Body shaming, and Classism
Minor: Death, Violence, and Vomit
emily_mh's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Oooo this was so good! My ONE criticism is that because the book was covering a relatively large swath of time and many events, some parts felt a little rushed. Apart from that, I loved this book and want everyone to read it!!
First of all the colour palette was so well done, especially in the art of the MC's apartment building; it felt very "Floridian" which enhanced the sense of place. The character development was also spot on. Every character has a thoughtful and well-executed arc. My favourites were of course Bree's (learning to swim) and Ms. Etta's (reconnecting with her swim sisters - the introduction of this part was really clever!). Also, this book made me really miss swimming! I just want to jump in a pool now.
Finally, and most importantly, I really appreciated being taught about the reason why there is the racist stereotype of "Black people can't swim." It added a whole other layer of significance to the story and filled a massive gap in my knowledge.
First of all the colour palette was so well done, especially in the art of the MC's apartment building; it felt very "Floridian" which enhanced the sense of place. The character development was also spot on. Every character has a thoughtful and well-executed arc. My favourites were of course Bree's (learning to swim) and Ms. Etta's (reconnecting with her swim sisters - the introduction of this part was really clever!). Also, this book made me really miss swimming! I just want to jump in a pool now.
Finally, and most importantly, I really appreciated being taught about the reason why there is the racist stereotype of "Black people can't swim." It added a whole other layer of significance to the story and filled a massive gap in my knowledge.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism, Classism, and Bullying
Minor: Vomit, Toxic friendship, Murder, and Violence
Minor warnings for drowning and disordered eating.
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