
Robin Klein's "Boss of the Pool" is a poignant chapter book that explores themes of prejudice, empathy, and personal growth through the eyes of teenage Shelley. During her summer holidays, Shelley reluctantly accompanies her mother to work at a hostel for people with disabilities. Her assignment to teach Ben, a boy with intellectual disabilities, to swim forces her to confront her preconceived notions and discomfort. The book is praised for its realistic portrayal of a protagonist's initial biases and her subsequent emotional development, making it an excellent tool for discussing differences and understanding others. It's suitable for ages 4-11, with younger readers focusing on the story of Ben's fear of water and older readers engaging with Shelley's complex internal journey.
Shelley's reluctant attempts to teach a mentally handicapped boy to swim teach her some painful lessons about herself.