Review of Swimming in a Sea of Stars

[Erin Dydek]

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

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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]

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]

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]

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]

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