Barely Floating

By Lilliam Rivera

A girl defies expectations to pursue synchronized swimming dreams against family doubts.

3.9/5 Goodreads · 658 ratings

240 pages

$17.99Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

Twelve-year-old Nat discovers a passion for synchronized swimming after witnessing the dazzling LA Mermaids. Despite her parents' disapproval of the sport's focus on appearance, Nat is determined to prove her skills. Growing up with brothers, she's no stranger to fighting for her dreams. As she navigates the challenges of being underestimated, Nat wonders if she can be both a mermaid and a submarine. Can she find her place in a world that values looks over talent? Dive into Nat's journey of self-discovery and resilience as she learns to shine in her own skin and build a supportive community.

From the publisher

A dazzling story full of heart about how one twelve-year-old channels her rage into synchronized swimming dreams from The Education of Margot Sanchez author Lilliam Rivera. Natalia De La Cruz Rivera y Santiago, also known as Nat, was swimming neighborhood kids out of their money at the local Inglewood pool when her life changed. The LA Mermaids performed, emerging out of the water with matching sequined swimsuits, and it was then that synchronized swimming stole her heart. The problem? Her activist mom and professor dad think it’s a sport with too much emphasis on looks–on being thin and white. Nat grew up the youngest in a house full of boys, so she knows how to fight for what she wants, often using her anger to fuel her. People often underestimate her swimming skills when they see her stomach rolls, but she knows better than to worry about what people think. Still, she feels more like a submarine than a mermaid, but she wonders if she might be both. Barely Floating explores what it means to sparkle in your skin, build community with those who lift you up, and keep floating when waters get rough.

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