How to Breathe Underwater

July 1, 2018

Gr 9 Up-Kate has her whole life figured out; but when her dad-who is also her swimming coach-cheats on her mom, she and her mom leave and move to the city of Portland. Kate quits swimming, her mom is depressed, and her sister decides to cancel her wedding-all due to Kate's father's actions. Kate tries to find other things to occupy her mind. She meets Michael, the boy across the hall, and they quickly become friends. Kate must jump another hurdle when she finds out that Michael has a girlfriend. Maybe things aren't looking so great. And without swimming, Kate's saving grace, can she keep her new life from drowning, too? Skinner adeptly creates relatable and honest characters. Their flaws, challenges, and problems build a compelling story with deep character growth and development. This contemporary novel deals with tough topics in a lighthearted and humorous way. VERDICT Give this to fans of complex stories about relationships who might enjoy a bit of sports mixed in.-Caitlin Wilson, Meadowdale Library, North Chesterfield, VA

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