How to Breathe Underwater by Vicky Skinner, 322 pages.
Swoon Reads (Macmillan), 2018. $17.
Language: R (48 swears, 7 ‘f’); Mature Content: PG-13
(steamy kisses, walks in on her sister and her fiancé having sex); Violence: G
BUYING ADVISORY: HS – OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Kate is a likable character who is
dealing with her parent’s messy divorce, moving, a new love, and swimming. Kate
is angry at her father (who is also her former swim coach) for pressuring her
to swim so hard in hopes of gaining his elusive approval. Kate has to decide
for herself if she wants to compete in swimming or just enjoy the water.
Meanwhile, her best friend isn’t answering her calls, her sister got cold feet
on her wedding-day, her mom is sad, and the boy that Kate likes (Michael) already
has a girlfriend. Michael’s mom is also really sick and has had to be
hospitalized.
The author gives a realistic and important look at the
pressure parents can put on their teens when they compete in sports. The story is
packed with lots of drama and plenty of excellent character development. Kate’s
ultimate resolution rings true. The book also explores the themes of grief,
mourning, and forgiveness in a thought-provoking, but not preachy way. Many
teens will be able to relate to Kate and her struggles both in and out of the
water.
Samantha, MA, MLS
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