The Three-Year Swim Club

by Julie Checkoway
The Three-Year Swim Club cover
Good Books rating 4.33
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 9793
  • Added: 2026-01-02
  • Updated: 2026-01-02
  • ISBN: 9781455523436
  • Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
  • Published: 2015-10-27
  • Reviews: 3

In 1937, a schoolteacher on the island of Maui, Soichi Sakamoto, inspired a group of impoverished Japanese-American children to swim against the current of their circumstances. Despite facing insurmountable obstacles, including training in filthy irrigation ditches and enduring anti-Japanese sentiment, the children achieved remarkable success, becoming national and international champions. Their journey is a testament to resilience and the power of determination./n/nThe Three-Year Swim Club's story is not just about swimming; it's about overcoming adversity and finding hope in the face of despair. From breaking records to facing the challenges of World War II, these children's lives were transformed by their dedication and the belief of their teacher. Their legacy continues to inspire generations.

Reviews
Hawaii Herald · 2020-10-02
vivid 4.00

The book's exhaustive research is evident in the accurate descriptions of plantation culture and world events. The narrative is vivid and inspiring, making it a must-read for those interested in historical and cultural contexts.

The Three-Year Swim Club by Julie Checkoway is a meticulously researched book that brings to life the inspiring tale of Hawaii's ditch swimmers. The author's exhaustive research is evident in the accurate descriptions of plantation culture and world events. The narrative is vivid and inspiring, making it a must-read for those interested in historical and cultural contexts. The book not only tells the story of the swimmers but also sheds light on the discrimination and challenges they faced. The author's attention to detail and vivid storytelling make the book a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    Checkoway's exhaustive research on the inspiring tale is evident in how accurately she describes plantation culture and life, world events and ...

    The narrative is vivid and inspiring, making it a must-read for those interested in historical and cultural contexts.

    The book not only tells the story of the swimmers but also sheds light on the discrimination and challenges they faced.

Frances Kakugawa's Blog · Frances Kakugawa · 2016-02-08
inspiring 4.50

The author did a great job of researching and writing the book, providing valuable information about the swim club and its members. The book is highly recommended for its inspiring story and detailed research.

Frances Kakugawa highly recommends The Three-Year Swim Club by Julie Checkoway. She praises the author's thorough research and engaging writing style, which bring the story of the swim club to life. The book provides valuable information about the swim club and its members, making it an inspiring read. Kakugawa found the book so compelling that she shared it with all her nieces, nephews, and their children. The detailed research and engaging narrative make the book a must-read for anyone interested in sports history or inspirational stories.

Quick quotes

    I highly recommend this book to all of you.

    The author did a great job of researching and writing the book, providing valuable information about the swim club and its members.

    The book is an inspiring read that brings the story of the swim club to life.

SwimSwam · 2015-11-04
inspirational 4.50

This is an inspirational story filled with tragedies and triumphs that changed the world of swimming forever. The narrative is engaging and heartwarming, highlighting the resilience and determination of the swimmers.

The Three-Year Swim Club tells the untold story of impoverished children who transformed themselves into world-class swimmers. The book is an inspirational tale of hope and perseverance against all odds. It's filled with tragedies and triumphs that highlight the resilience and determination of the swimmers. The narrative is engaging and heartwarming, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in sports history or inspirational stories. The author does a fantastic job of bringing the characters to life and making the reader feel connected to their journey.

Quick quotes

    It is an inspirational story – against all odds – filled with tragedies and triumphs and one that changed the world of swimming for ever.

    The narrative is engaging and heartwarming, highlighting the resilience and determination of the swimmers.

    The book is a compelling read for anyone interested in sports history or inspirational stories.

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