Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas is a 2022 middle-grade graphic novel about Bree, a young Black girl who reluctantly joins the swim team at her new Florida middle school. As Bree confronts her fears of swimming and new friendships, she learns about the history of segregation in public swimming facilities. The story explores themes of resilience, teamwork, and perseverance.

Reviews for Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas highlight its engaging narrative and captivating illustrations. Critics praise the book for addressing important social issues and promoting diversity. However, some reviewers note that the pacing can feel uneven at times. Overall, it is well-received for its positive message and visual appeal.

Readers who would enjoy Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas are middle grade readers who appreciate graphic novels blending personal growth, teamwork, and overcoming adversity. Fans of Ghost by Jason Reynolds or New Kid by Jerry Craft will find similar themes of resilience and community.

Heartwarming / Inspirational / Hopeful / Emotional

- Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas explores themes of overcoming personal fears and embracing community, set against a backdrop of historical narratives regarding swimming and racial segregation.
- The author, Johnnie Christmas, is known for his expressive, engaging art style, which vividly brings the graphic novel's story to life.
- Swim Team has been praised for its educational content, subtly integrating lessons about the history and techniques of swimming alongside its fictional narrative.

Johnnie Christmas

Middle grade

Graphic Novel/Book

Fiction

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Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Swim Team and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Swim Team Summary and Study Guide

Background

Swim Team Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-2

Swim Team Chapters 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 3-5

Swim Team Chapters 3-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-7

Swim Team Chapters 6-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-9

Swim Team Chapters 8-9 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Swim Team Character Analysis

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Themes

Swim Team Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Swim Team Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Swim Team Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Swim Team Essay Topics

Swim Team

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Swim Team?

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Book Details