Swim Team
Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas is a contemporary middle grade graphic novel published by HarperCollins Publishers in 2022. This 245-page book follows Bree, who is apprehensive about starting her new middle school, Enith Brigitha, and is unexpectedly enrolled in Swim 101. As she confronts her fear of swimming, Bree receives guidance from Etta, a former swim team captain, as she navigates the challenges of turning around her school’s struggling swim team.
Readers will find a narrative that intertwines themes of perseverance and community as Bree works to inspire her teammates and compete against their rival, Holyoke Prep. The story explores social topics such as prejudice and racism while also delving into the world of sports and recreation. With its engaging characters and dynamic illustrations, Swim Team presents a relatable journey of self-discovery and teamwork.
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
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Swim Team” about?
Who is the author of “Swim Team”?
When was “Swim Team” published?
What is the ISBN for “Swim Team”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
