Barely Floating captivates readers through Nat's bold defiance of body stereotypes and her secret, glittery quest for synchronized swimming mastery. Rivera blends the sensory magic of underwater movement with a fierce message of self advocacy against restrictive beauty standards. Books in this family share rebellious protagonists, specialized artistic sports, and themes of body positivity.
Reach for this book if your child is struggling with body image, feels their physical appearance doesn't match the stereotype of an athlete, or is navigating a conflict between their own passions and family expectations. Twelve year old Nat is determined to join an elite synchronized swimming team despite her activist parents' concerns about the sport's lack of diversity and focus on aesthetics. As she navigates the challenges of being a plus-sized Latina in a traditionally thin, white-dominated space, she learns to channel her anger into artistry. It is a powerful choice for middle schoolers facing social pressures, offering a realistic yet hopeful look at self advocacy and finding one's community. The story celebrates body neutrality and the courage it takes to pursue a dream that others might not see for you.
