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avisreadsandreads's review
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-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
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism and Bullying
Minor: Death and Murder
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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