Review of Swimming in a Sea of Stars

Erin Dydek · Post by **Erin Dydek** » 29 Jun 2023, 20:22

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Swimming in a Sea of Stars" by Julie Wright.]

5 out of 5 stars

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Can a single day make a difference? Does anyone notice if one star goes out in the sky filled with billions of lights? Addison Thoreau explores the answers to these questions and vulnerably shares her thoughts on her first day back to school after a failed suicide attempt. As the young woman faces the day, she unknowingly impacts the lives of four fellow students, each of whom has struggled with pain and trauma in their own lives. As each teen connects and takes steps of courage, readers learn what it takes to go from drowning alone to Swimming in a Sea of Stars.

In this young adult novel by Julie Wright, I loved how the author depicted the power of connecting with those around us and summoning the courage to have compassion for those around us. Through multiple points of view, the reader sees how lives can intersect in small ways that make a profound difference. I also appreciated how the challenges stretched each character in a difficult-to-confront area. For Damion, Avery, Booker, and Celia, their journeys began as they attempted to reach out to Addison. I loved the suspense of wondering how individual actions and choices would resolve by the end of the story. The teens were easy to relate to and evoked empathy, especially Addison, who was drowning in anxiety about confronting her past, facing the future, and wondering if she was seen and known.

While various topics concerning mental health are a central part of this book, the author kept possible triggers to a minimum by gently alluding to the details concerning Addison’s and Celia’s traumas. The pace moves smoothly, the complete book covering a single day in Addison’s life. Initially, I was concerned that this would imply that healing could happen instantly, but that was not the case. Each character’s story focuses on facing a pivotal moment in beginning the healing process. The author provided a resolution for the teens while leaving the door open to discussion at the book’s conclusion. The follow-up questions were perfect for continuing the conversation about mental health. I also appreciated that the author didn’t provide all the answers, leaving teen readers the room to explore these topics with friends, mentors, and therapists.

There were a few occasions when I found it hard to keep the three girls’ stories straight, but their hope-filled resolutions still resonated with me. This professionally edited book was well worth reading and included many emotionally profound moments. Therefore, I give Swimming in a Sea of Stars five out of five stars.

I recommend this book to teens and young adults looking for a story to inspire courage, compassion, and empathy. This book provides plenty of room for reflective thought and group discussions which may help readers learn to be more observant about those around them, looking for opportunities to connect with others and shine a light in a world that desperately needs hope. If you’ve ever wondered if your life matters, you might want to read this book to help you realize that your life has a more significant impact than you could ever imagine.

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Swimming in a Sea of Stars
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Naimah Agboluaje · Post by **Naimah Agboluaje** » 24 Dec 2024, 14:43

Reading through this review, the book "Swimming in a Sea of Stars" appears to be a captivating and thought-provoking read. The author effectively explores the power of connection and compassion, showcasing how small actions can have a profound impact on others. The characters' journeys through pain and trauma are relatable, evoking empathy from the readers. The author handles mental health topics delicately, making the book accessible and engaging. With emotionally profound moments and a well-paced plot, this book seems like a five-star read. I would recommend it to teens and young adults who are looking for a story that inspires courage, compassion, and empathy. It encourages readers to be observant of others and find opportunities to connect and bring hope into the world. Touching resolution, left me feeling deeply satisfied.

Khadijat Rasheed · Post by **Khadijat Rasheed** » 27 Dec 2024, 03:32

The characters' journeys through pain and trauma are relatable, evoking empathy from the readers. The author handles mental health topics delicately, making the book accessible and engaging. With emotionally profound moments and a well-paced plot, this book seems like a five-star read.
I would recommend it to teens and young adults who are looking for a story that inspires courage, compassion, and empathy. It encourages readers to be observant of others and find opportunities to connect and bring hope into the world. Touching resolution, left me feeling deeply satisfied.

Joe Alex 2 · Post by **Joe Alex 2** » 08 Jan 2025, 07:08

The idea of a single day making such an impact on Addison and the other characters really resonates with me. The themes of mental health, healing, and connection feel important, and I like that the book leaves room for reflection and conversation. Based on the review, I’d definitely be interested in reading Swimming in a Sea of Stars to explore these themes more deeply and see how the characters navigate their struggles. I’d be reading it.

Kirsten Royals · Post by **Kirsten Royals** » 03 Feb 2025, 21:51

I enjoyed your review and though I was hesitant to read this book due to triggers your post encouraged me try it.

Post by **Rebecca De Figueiredo** » Today, 07:13

I love this fresh and novel way of broaching g thus very sensitive topic. The introduction seems chatty and personable. Life can sometimes feel full of insurmountable problems at this age, and perhaps it will resonate with some young readers. The reviewers summary helped, thanks.

Rystany Jardeny D · Post by **Rystany Jardeny D** » Today, 07:21

"Swimming in a Sea of Stars" by Julia Wright is a touching book that follows the lives of five teenagers whose paths cross at important moments. The story talks about pain, friendship, empathy, and how small actions can make a big difference in someone’s life. With care and emotion, the author shows how kind words can heal, while gossip and judgment can deeply hurt.

The story begins with Addison, a girl returning to school after a suicide attempt. She writes in a journal, as her therapist suggested, and through her words, we learn about her fears and feelings. Her closest friend, Booker, feels guilty for not seeing the signs. He wonders: what if he had noticed something earlier?

Damion is a popular social media influencer who seems to have it all — attention, fame, and thousands of followers. But the book reminds us that being known is not the same as being understood. Avery, who used to be close to Damion, is still grieving her mother’s death and trying to keep her family together while her brother follows a dangerous path. Celia, another character, is stuck in an abusive relationship and hopes to change her life.

Each of these characters faces real-life problems: grief, abuse, illness in the family, mental health struggles, and the pressure of social media. The author presents these topics with honesty but also with hope. The story reminds us how important it is to care for the people around us while we still have time.

The writing flows well, and the characters feel real and deep. Their stories are revealed little by little, in a natural and engaging way. The book is well-edited — I didn’t find any mistakes, which shows professional work.

Because of all these strong points, I give it 5 out of 5 stars. Swimming in a Sea of Stars is an emotional and thoughtful book. I highly recommend it for high school students, as it reflects the challenges many young people face today. However, since it talks about serious topics, it may be hard for sensitive readers. Parents or guardians may want to read it first if they have concerns.

Amos Osinya · Post by **Amos Osinya** » Today, 07:40

Am drawn into this book first by the impression I received from the personality of Addison. The second is the theme of compassion and harnessing the power of connection we get by working with others around us.

María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda

We need to talk about mental health. And not in the wishy-washy way we often do but in a raw, often uncomfortable way.
Like you, I love stories where the characters interconnect because it shows we have more in common that what differentiates us.
Great review!

Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis · Post by **Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis** » Today, 08:36

Very nice review! I read this book a few years ago, and it resonated with me as I have two members of my family who tried to commit suicide, but fortunately failed. It is a good book with many lessons to be learned in it. Thanks for the review!

Post by **Elise Hudson** » Today, 08:42

While I have not read this book, I believe the reviewer did a fantastic job of touching on all points that they liked from the novel. I resonated with a lot of the things that were written about figuring out our own impact and worth. Great job reviewer!

Post by **Sarah Zain** » Today, 08:44

Great review. I read the book and it was one of the best stories I've read, both in terms of the author's style and its handling of the topic of suicide and what teenagers go through. Great choice for BOTD. CONGRATS

Marinttoe Baeza · Post by **Marinttoe Baeza** » Today, 09:00

I read the sample. The books is written like a journal by a girl that unsuccessfully committed suicide; it takes you through all her insecurities and sadness. Later in the book you realize that she is not the only one dealing with personal issues, a lot of kids are having a hard time too. It makes you wonder what a teenager needs to go through. We should be considered by everyone.

Alex Sapountzis · Post by **Alex Sapountzis** » Today, 10:04

Just the premise alone seems like it has plenty of potential for emotion inducing moments and thoughts. Especially if you have experienced anything remotely close to that in real life.

Post by **Sanju Lali** » Today, 10:06

One can find a lot of takeaways for being inspired in life with courage, compassion, and empathy by reading the book "Swimming in a Sea of Stars" by Julie Wright. The book depicts the power of connecting with those around us.