For the child navigating chronic illness, this verse novel beautifully explores finding inner strength and adapting dreams when life throws unexpected challenges.
A parent should reach for this book when their child is facing a new, life-altering diagnosis or a challenge that forces them to rethink their identity and future. Twelve-year-old Aniana loves swimming more than anything, but her Olympic dreams are shattered by a diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Written in beautiful verse, the story follows her through the anger and grief of losing her sport and the journey of discovering a new passion in artistic swimming. It is a powerful and validating story for middle grade readers about resilience, adapting dreams, and finding strength within yourself and your family. It masterfully portrays the emotional reality of chronic illness while offering a hopeful, realistic path forward.
The book's portrayal of chronic illness and disability is direct, honest, and secular. It does not shy away from depicting the physical pain, the fear of medical procedures like infusions, or the emotional toll of an invisible illness. The resolution is realistic and hopeful: Aniana is not cured, but she learns to manage her condition and finds a new, joyful purpose. The focus is on adaptation and resilience, not a magical recovery.
Ideal Reader
A child aged 10-13 who has been recently diagnosed with a chronic illness (especially an invisible one like JIA) or has been forced to abandon a cherished activity due to circumstances beyond their control. It is also excellent for an empathetic friend or sibling who wants to better understand the experience of living with a chronic condition.
Parent Prep
The descriptions of pain and medical treatments (needles, infusions) are clear and realistic. A parent may want to preview the first few chapters that detail Aniana's major flare-up and diagnosis to ensure it's not too overwhelming. The book can be read cold, but conversations about the feelings it brings up will be beneficial. The parent hears their child say things like, "It's not fair," "I'm not good at anything anymore," or "No one understands what it's like." The parent observes their child withdrawing or struggling with their identity after a major life change or diagnosis.
Age Experience
A younger reader (10-11) will connect strongly with the core story of losing a dream, the importance of family support, and the excitement of finding a new hobby. An older reader (12-14) will appreciate the more nuanced themes: defining one's identity beyond a single activity, the frustration of ableism, and the complex process of grieving and rebuilding a sense of self.
What Makes It Special
This book's power lies in its authentic, "own voices" verse novel format, which makes a heavy topic feel immediate and deeply personal. It provides a rare and desperately needed mirror for kids with JIA. The seamless integration of Dominican-American culture and language offers a specific, rich context that sets it apart from other books on illness and resilience.
Read plot summary
Twelve-year-old Aniana del Mar, a dedicated Dominican-American swimmer, is on track for success until a sudden diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) ends her competitive swimming career. This novel-in-verse chronicles her emotional and physical journey as she navigates chronic pain, intense medical treatments, and the grief of losing her primary identity. With the encouragement of her family and a new friend, Aniana discovers artistic (synchronized) swimming, a sport that allows her to return to the water and redefine herself as an athlete on her own terms.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Aniana calls her arthritis "the monster." Why do you think she gives her illness this name? How does thinking of it as a separate creature help her?
2
Aniana's Mami is very scared to let her get back in the water. Why do you think she feels this way? How do Aniana's and her mother's ideas about safety and risk differ?
3
Before her diagnosis, Aniana's whole identity was being a swimmer. After, she struggles to figure out who she is. What parts of your own identity are most important to you?
4
How does Aniana's new friendship with Cassandra help her heal in ways that her family's love can't?
