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39 pages 1 hour read

Swim Team

Fiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Middle Grade | Published in 2022

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Book Brief

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Johnnie Christmas

Swim Team

Fiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Middle Grade | Published in 2022
Book Details
Pages

248

Format

Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction

Setting

Florida • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2022

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas is a 2022 middle-grade graphic novel about Bree, a young Black girl who reluctantly joins the swim team at her new Florida middle school. As Bree confronts her fears of swimming and new friendships, she learns about the history of segregation in public swimming facilities. The story explores themes of resilience, teamwork, and perseverance.

Heartwarming

Inspirational

Hopeful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.5

8,406 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews for Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas highlight its engaging narrative and captivating illustrations. Critics praise the book for addressing important social issues and promoting diversity. However, some reviewers note that the pacing can feel uneven at times. Overall, it is well-received for its positive message and visual appeal.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Swim Team?

Readers who would enjoy Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas are middle grade readers who appreciate graphic novels blending personal growth, teamwork, and overcoming adversity. Fans of Ghost by Jason Reynolds or New Kid by Jerry Craft will find similar themes of resilience and community.

4.5

8,406 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Bree

Bree is a strong student who loves math and puzzles but fears swimming; she learns to face her fears through joining a swim team and becomes more connected to her community and friends.

Etta is Bree’s mentor and swim coach who lives in the same apartment complex; she teaches Bree about swimming and shares her own experiences from her youth.

Ralph is Bree’s single father, who moves with her to Florida for his new technology training program; he supports Bree’s education and gradually becomes more involved in her swimming activities.

Clara is Bree’s first friend in Florida and a fellow swim team member; she is determined to succeed in swimming but struggles with math, seeking help from Bree.

Phillipa is a member of Bree’s swim team known as “the Anchor”; she initially struggles with swimming and is sensitive about her performance but finds her confidence with encouragement from others.

Keisha is a new member of Bree’s swim team who previously attended Holyoke Prep; she initially has a tough exterior but gradually appreciates the supportive atmosphere at Enith Brigitha Middle School.

Book Details
Pages

248

Format

Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction

Setting

Florida • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2022

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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