Swim: Why We Love the Water by Lynn Sherr

Swim is a captivating celebration of the sport of swimming, delving into its ancient origins and modern-day significance. Lynn Sherr explores the reasons why we are drawn to the water, the evolution of swimming over the centuries, and the social aspects of this once-solitary activity. The book also examines our relationship with water, our fishy ancestors, and the evolution of swimwear. Sherr provides insights into the biology of swimming, the fame of iconic swimmers like Esther Williams, and the training regimens of Olympians. She even includes songs to sing during your next swim, ensuring that anyone can enjoy the secret of buoyancy and avoid the fate of the English poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, who tragically drowned in Italy's Arno River./n/nSwim is more than just a book about swimming; it's a comprehensive look at the cultural and personal impact of this beloved activity. Sherr's engaging narrative covers everything from the allure of turquoise pools and wild water to the psychological and physical benefits of swimming. Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or a beginner, Swim offers a wealth of information and inspiration to help you make the most of your time in the water. With its blend of history, science, and personal anecdotes, this book is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt the magic of swimming.

Reviews

The Corner of Laura · Laura · 2020-07-08

fascinating 4.00

The book is fascinating, especially the historical perspective on the development of swimming strokes. It's a thoroughly researched and engaging read.

Laura found the book to be a fascinating exploration of swimming's history, particularly the development of different swimming strokes. They appreciated the thorough research that went into the book, making it an engaging and informative read. Laura highlighted how the book provides a unique perspective on the evolution of swimming, from its ancient origins to its modern-day popularity. They praised the author's ability to make the historical data accessible and interesting, making it a great choice for anyone interested in the sport or its history. Laura also noted that the book is not just for swimmers, but for anyone who enjoys a well-researched and engaging non-fiction read.

Quick quotes

It doesn't just show us when swimming fell in and out of fashion but there's a lot on the development of the strokes.

All of it is fascinating.

A thoroughly researched and engaging read.

Tampa Bay Times · 2012-05-26

insightful 4.50

The sensory recollection of swimming long distances in the sea is deeply resonant. It's a masterful exploration of the human connection to water.

The reviewer was deeply moved by the sensory descriptions of swimming in the sea, feeling a profound connection to the experience. They praised the book's exploration of the human relationship with water, highlighting its historical and personal significance. The reviewer found the book to be a masterful blend of personal narrative and historical context, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the natural world and human experience. The reviewer appreciated the book's ability to evoke a deep, almost metabolic, connection to the act of swimming, making it a standout in the genre.

Quick quotes

Sherr's sensory recollection of what it is like to swim long distances in the sea resonated with me on a deep, almost metabolic level.

I felt my own memories of swimming in the ocean surface as I read.

A masterstroke in exploring the human connection to water.

Goodreads · Various · 2012-04-03

mixed 3.70

The book is a celebration of swimming and its impact on our lives. It offers a mix of interesting and somewhat boring parts.

The reviewers on Goodreads had a mixed reaction to the book, with some praising it as a celebration of swimming and its impact on our lives. They appreciated the book's exploration of the historical and personal significance of swimming, finding it to be a worthwhile read. However, some reviewers found certain parts of the book to be boring, suggesting that it may not be suitable for everyone. Despite this, the book received an average rating of 3.7 stars, indicating that many readers found it to be an enjoyable and informative read. The reviewers appreciated the book's ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to the natural world, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the sport or its history.

Quick quotes

Swim is a celebration of swimming and the effect it has on our lives.

I would only recommend this to those who love swimming.

The book is thoroughly researched – some of it is interesting and other parts were a bit boring for me.

Appears in Lists

The Top 8 Swimming Themed Books Of All Time