About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is feeling the immense pressure of performance or is navigating the quiet, lingering grief of losing someone close. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the 1960 Rome Olympics, the story follows Alex Archer as she balances the grueling demands of elite swimming with the internal struggle of finding her own identity. It is a sophisticated look at the transition from childhood to adulthood, dealing with the expectations of coaches and family while grappling with the recent death of a friend. This novel is ideal for older teens who appreciate historical realism and stories that normalize the complex feelings of anxiety and independence. It offers a grounded perspective on resilience, making it a perfect choice for young adults facing their own high stakes moments.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with the death of a peer. The approach is secular and realistic, focusing on the psychological weight of grief rather than the event itself. The resolution is hopeful but remains firmly grounded in reality, showing that while grief doesn't disappear, one can learn to carry it while moving forward.
