Review of Swimming in a Sea of Stars

[Seamstress]

Unfortunately, I will have to skip this book, because I am nowhere near to being considered a young adult and my children aren't interested in said genre as well; moreover, I'm not sure I would have allowed them to read about attempted suicide anyway. "The teens were easy to relate to," but as easily are wounded and I like to create a more nutritional environment for my children; therefore, the book is of no use to our family, but I congratulate the author with BOTD!

[Malik Bakare]

Julie Wright does an incredible job portraying Addison’s anxiety and her struggle to feel seen, while also highlighting the courage it takes for each teen to confront their personal challenges, creating characters that are so relatable and evoke such strong empathy.

[Gayatri Tripathi]

Thank you for such a heartfelt review. I was especially struck by your insight about how the story covers just one day in Addison’s life—it’s powerful to realize how much can happen in a single day when people open their hearts to one another. The way you described each teen’s individual journey made me reflect on how we often underestimate the small moments that connect us. I also appreciated your note about how the book doesn’t offer instant healing, but rather shows the beginning of it, which feels both realistic and respectful to the subject matter. This sounds like a beautiful, necessary story for teens and adults alike.

[Idah_Kenei]

Reading or watching something you experienced and didn't heal can be triggering. I don't imagine what it might feel like seeing someone go through what You went through. Mental health is very delicate and should not be under estimated

[mrlefty0706]

"Swimming in a Sea of Stars" by Julie Wright is a story about Addison Thoreau who keeps a diary and posts questions as well as experiences. She asks her diary “Does anyone notice if one star goes out in the sky filled with billions of lights”? With the incredible telescopes operated by NASA the answer would be yes since the scientists have the telescopes programed to notice any change in outer space. Addison has returned to school after a failed suicide attempt and as she faces the first day, she unknowingly impacts the lives of four fellow students, each of them facing pain and trauma in their own lives. As each of the teens connects and takes steps of courage, readers learn what it takes to go from drowning alone to swimming in a sea of stars. This is a young adult novel that relates multiple points of view so readers can see how lives can intersect in small ways that make an overpowering difference. All four of the characters were challenged in difficult areas and their journeys begin when they attempt to reach out to Addison. This amazing story takes place in a single day in Addison’s life. All five of the teens were easy to relate to and their issues invoked empathy. The story does not imply that these issues could be resolved in one day but all five of the characters could take their first step during the first day. This is not a self-help book and the author does not provide answers to all of the questions but rather suggests that teen readers explore the topics with friends, mentors and therapists. Group discussions should be held and emphasize the need to be observant of the people around them. The sample provided vivid detail of each character and really drew me in and I forward to reading the entire book. It is amazing how one girl whose failed suicide attempt can directly affect the lives of four other students.

[Bettny Andrade]

This story tells of a girl who returns to her school after attempting suicide. Afterward, some people try to connect with her and approach her, since they have their own traumas. It's beautiful to see the characters' evolution and feel that camaraderie and faith that they want to improve themselves and help others improve. This book conveys that sense that there is always something more, and that if you set your mind to it, you can help others and give of yourself.

[Chinazo Anozie]

I enjoy YA novels, and Addison's journey seems like an intriguing and emotional one to explore. I'll check out Swimming in a Sea of Stars by Julie Wright.

[Madeleine02]

Thank you for such a thoughtful review. I think the reviewer did a excellent job in showcasing the beauty of this book , offering insight about the struggles teenagers face - mental health issues, abusive relationships, inferiority complexes, self-esteem issues. I really appreciated how the author of the review focused on the the importance of connecting with each other in order to overcome personal challenges and how even a small act of kindness can alter a person's life. I loved the metaphor used for explaining that we are not alone in this world and that we are all connected somehow. After reading the sample and this review, I think I will finish this book, due to the fact that it tackles such a delicate, but relatable topic.

[Shreya Mathur]

The reviews here tell me this is a book I’d love if I try it, because I can see trauma, pain poor mental health, and these are not taken as seriously as it should be in my world. Definitely reading to see how well she handles the topic of metal health

[Bema Snr]

The premise of Addison Thoreau's journey back to school after a suicide attempt, and her unwitting influence on others, promises a deeply moving and ultimately hopeful narrative. The title, "Swimming in a Sea of Stars," beautifully encapsulates the transition from isolation to connection, suggesting that even in the darkest moments, courage and empathy can illuminate a path forward. It sounds like a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of human connection to heal and transform. "Swimming in a Sea of Stars" by Julie Wright, great BOTD

[Runan]

Addison goes back to school after a failed suicide attempt. Anxiety and nervousness are natural. She meets 4 others at school, and how do these interactions shape her view and heal her? The story evokes empathy, courage and compassion.

[Soma Ezenwanne]

I want to read "Swimming in a Sea of Stars" by Julie Wright because it shows how one moment can change everything. It sounds emotional with characters going through real struggles.

[Amy_Jackson]

This is a great book to learn about how our actions can affect others, no matter how small, and also how to consciously watch out for our mental health. I love the part of leaving room for discussion on points raised.

[Khushpreet Kour]

Reading this review made me genuinely curious and eager to dive into Swimming in a Sea of Stars. What stood out to me most was how the book manages to address serious mental health topics with sensitivity while still leaving readers with a sense of hope. I was moved by the idea that small actions and brief moments can have a huge impact on someone’s life—something we often forget in our daily routines. The fact that the story is told through multiple perspectives also makes it feel more real and relatable.

I felt inspired by how the characters find the courage to face their inner struggles, and I think it’s a story that would make me reflect deeply on my own relationships, emotions, and how I connect with others. This review didn’t just describe a book—it made me feel the emotional weight and beauty of what the story offers. Now, I really want to read it and experience that journey for myself.

[Jessy Edward]

This review gave me chills. What a powerful and emotional read this must be. I love books that tackle mental health with sensitivity and hope, especially for teens. It’s so important to show that even small acts of kindness can truly make a difference. Definitely adding Swimming in a Sea of Stars to my reading list.