Splash

Molly is passionate about swimming and is keen to compete in the regional competition, but her best friend Chloe says swimming is for geeks. Although Molly is desperate for Chloe’s approval, she doesn’t want to relinquish her dream of becoming a champion swimmer, so she trains in secret. As Chloe’s domineering behaviour and spiteful comments escalate, Molly takes solace in her friendship with teammate Ed, whose easygoing nature puts her at ease.

At home, life is turned upside-down when Molly’s mother, who left when she was a baby, turns up unexpectedly. Molly is torn between the excitement of getting to know her mum, and the fear that she will disappear again.

This sensitive novel touches on several issues that may concern pre-adolescents, from anxieties about starting secondary school to pressures around body image. It explores the importance of friendship and encourages young people to follow their dreams and find their own place in the world.