Swim Team
Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas is a contemporary middle grade graphic novel published by HarperCollins Publishers in 2022. This edition spans 245 pages and is presented in English. The story follows Bree, who is apprehensive about her first day at Enith Brigitha Middle School, especially when she finds herself enrolled in Swim 101, an elective she dreads. With the help of Etta, a former swim team captain, Bree confronts her fears and takes on the challenge of revitalizing her school’s struggling swim team.
Readers will find a narrative that intertwines themes of sports and personal growth as Bree navigates her fears and the dynamics of teamwork. The story explores social topics such as prejudice and racism while incorporating elements of water sports and community spirit. As Bree works to turn the Mighty Manatees into a competitive team against their rival, Holyoke Prep, the book presents a journey of resilience and determination. This graphic novel combines engaging characters with a relatable storyline, making it a thoughtful addition to the juvenile nonfiction and fiction genres.
Official synopsis Publisher
“Combines wonderful characters and history to create a story that will make you want to dive right in!” JERRY CRAFT, author of the Newbery Medal-winning New Kid
A splashy, contemporary middle grade graphic novel from bestselling comics creator Johnnie Christmas!
Bree can’t wait for her first day at her new middle school, Enith Brigitha, home to the Mighty Manatees–until she’s stuck with the only elective that fits her schedule, the dreaded Swim 101. The thought of swimming makes Bree more than a little queasy, yet she’s forced to dive headfirst into one of her greatest fears. Lucky for her, Etta, an elderly occupant of her apartment building and former swim team captain, is willing to help.
With Etta’s training and a lot of hard work, Bree suddenly finds her swim-crazed community counting on her to turn the school’s failing team around. But that’s easier said than done, especially when their rival, the prestigious Holyoke Prep, has everything they need to leave the Mighty Manatees in their wake.
Can Bree defy the odds and guide her team to a state championship, or have the Manatees swum their last lap–for good?
Praise for SWIM TEAM:
Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor
National Book Award Longlist
Kirkus Best Book of the Year
Harvey Award Best Children’s or Young Adult Book Nominee
Children’s Book Council’s Summer 2025 Showcase: An Ocean of Stories Pick
“A revelation! You’ll root for Swim Team–the water is just right.” –JOHN JENNINGS, New York Times bestselling and Eisner Award-winning creator
“Swim Team is a beautiful story about trying new things. Johnnie Christmas is a fantastic storyteller and artist.” –KAZU KIBUISHI, author of Amulet
“Full of charm, heart, and pulse-pounding races. A winner!” –GENE LUEN YANG, author of American Born Chinese and Dragon Hoops
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