Swim Team
on Goodreads (8,802)
What’s inside...
Bree is apprehensive about her first day at her new middle school, Enith Brigitha, home to the Mighty Manatees, when she is placed in the only elective available, Swim 101, which she dreads. Despite her fear of swimming, Bree is forced to face her fears with the help of Etta, a former swim team captain and elderly resident of her apartment building. As Bree puts in hard work with Etta's guidance, she finds herself in a position to turn the school's struggling swim team around, especially as they face off against their well-equipped rivals, Holyoke Prep. Bree must overcome challenges and rally the Mighty Manatees to compete for a state championship, battling against the odds to prove themselves.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
256 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the main character’s journey in learning to swim? What challenges did they face?
How did the friends in the swim team help each other? Can you think of a time when a friend helped you like that?
What did you learn about teamwork and perseverance from the story?
How did the characters feel at the beginning of the book and how did they feel at the end? What changed?
If you were on the swim team, what role would you like to play?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by asking your child how they felt about the book and if they found any parts particularly exciting or challenging. Use the provided questions to guide the conversation deeper into the themes of teamwork, overcoming fears, and friendship. Encourage them to relate the story to their own experiences, fostering a personal connection to the book’s messages. Make sure to listen actively, showing enthusiasm and interest in their thoughts and feelings. This shared activity can significantly enhance your child’s comprehension and empathy skills, while also strengthening your bond.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Swim Team,' the characters must work together to succeed in their swimming competitions, demonstrating the importance of cooperation and team effort.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning how to collaborate effectively to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Commitment
Explanation: The story highlights the protagonist's dedication to training and improving their swimming skills, despite challenges.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persisting through difficulties and remaining committed to their goals, whether in academics, sports, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The book celebrates diversity within the swim team, showcasing characters from various backgrounds working harmoniously.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and embrace differences in their classmates and community members, fostering inclusivity and respect.
Example Lesson: Importance of Sportsmanship
Explanation: Characters in 'Swim Team' demonstrate good sportsmanship, both in victory and defeat, underscoring the importance of respect and integrity in competition.
Real-World Application: This promotes a positive attitude and respect towards peers during competitive or group activities, teaching kids to handle outcomes graciously.
Example Lesson: Health and Fitness
Explanation: Through the story, there is a strong emphasis on the health benefits of swimming and staying active.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to engage in physical activities for better health and to appreciate sports as a lifelong wellness practice.