The Storm Swimmer
Reviewed By Grasshopper2 April 7, 2023
Author Clare Weze

Distributor: Bloomsbury Publishing
ISBN: 9781526622211
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing.
Release Date: February 2023
Website: https://www.bloomsbury.com
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Clare Weze has written an adventure/fantasy in The Storm Swimmer for mid-grade readers set in seaside town that could be almost anywhere, but is set in the coastal town of Devon, England.
Ginika lives in a camper van with her parents. However, this new arrangement is not working and so they have decided to send her to her grandparents in Devon. The young girl is very upset and desperate not to be parted from her parents. She will also miss her school friends and performing in the school play. Many arguments ensue, but her parents insist.
Gradually we learn that Ginika is very afraid of water after an accident. Her grandparents run a boarding house and are kept very busy. However, they show great concern for the girl and care for her, while allowing her freedom to roam the local beach. It is here she comes across Peri, the boy from the sea. They develop a friendship and begin to communicate in a basic way.
In the excitement of finding such an unusual friend, Ginika begins to show Peri what life on land is like. The lights at night, the noises from cars and trucks, and the awareness that there is little peace to be had begins to change Peri. Ginika recognises he is unwell and knows that she will have to act quickly, and bravely to help him.
Many skilfully woven themes and ideas have been carefully introduced into this story full of has interesting characters, a fantasy element and adventure.
The Storm Swimmer is a well told story that looks at the issues of change, homelessness, family and acceptance in a well-balanced style.