A parent might reach for this book when their child is facing the dual challenge of a new school and burgeoning self-consciousness about their body. It's for the child who feels like they don't quite fit in and is hesitant to try new things for fear of not being good enough. Twelve-year-old Natalia has just moved from Los Angeles to Florida after her dad lost his job. Feeling adrift and insecure, she impulsively decides to try out for the local synchronized swimming team. This hopeful story tackles themes of body positivity, friendship, and the courage it takes to redefine yourself. It’s a perfect read for middle graders navigating the tricky waters of change and self-acceptance.
Body image is a central theme, handled directly and with great sensitivity. Nat's feelings about being "chubby" are explored from her own perspective, and her journey is one toward acceptance and empowerment, not weight loss. The family's financial hardship is also a direct plot point, addressed realistically as a source of stress but also family resilience. Cultural identity is explored through Nat's experience as a Latina girl in a new, less diverse town, including mild microaggressions. The resolutions to all these threads are hopeful and realistic.
Ideal Reader
An ideal reader is a 9 to 12-year-old who is either experiencing a big life change (like a move) or is struggling with self-confidence and body image. It is perfect for the child who feels like an underdog and needs to see a character find their unique strength and community.
Parent Prep
The book can be read cold as it handles its topics gracefully. A parent might want to be prepared for conversations about body image, the feeling of being an outsider, and why people sometimes lie to fit in. The themes are presented in a very accessible way for this age group. A parent has noticed their child withdrawing after a move or starting a new school. The child might be saying things like "I don't have any friends" or expressing negative thoughts about their appearance, particularly a reluctance to participate in activities like swimming.
Age Experience
A younger reader (9-10) will likely focus on the plot: the friendships, the secret, and the fun of synchronized swimming. An older reader (11-12) will connect more deeply with the nuanced internal struggles, including Nat's feelings about her body, her family's financial situation, and her shifting cultural identity.
What Makes It Special
While many middle-grade books cover moving and friendship, this book's unique blend of the sport of artistic swimming, a relatable Latina protagonist, and a refreshingly direct, positive approach to body image makes it stand out. It celebrates finding a community where you can be fully yourself, quirks and all.
Read plot summary
Twelve-year-old Natalia is uprooted from her vibrant life in Los Angeles and moved to Florida due to her father's job loss. Feeling lonely, out of place, and insecure about her body, she lies about her swimming ability to join a synchronized swimming team called the Anhinga Mermaids. The story follows Nat as she secretly teaches herself to swim, navigates a tricky dynamic with the team captain, builds new friendships, and ultimately finds the confidence to embrace who she is, both in and out of the water.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Nat tells a big lie to join the mermaids. Why do you think she did that? Was it the right choice, and what could she have done differently?
2
The team captain, V, is not very nice to Nat at first. Do you think V is just a 'mean girl,' or is there more to her story? How does their relationship change?
3
Nat often feels self-conscious about her body, especially at the pool. How does joining the team and learning new skills change the way she sees herself?
4
Moving to Florida is a big change for Nat and her family. What are some of the things she misses about Los Angeles? How does she find things to love about her new home?
