Although Jessenia often tires of hearing her mother talk about her childhood in Puerto Rico, she finds that the stories give her unexpected strength and inspiration when she participates in a swimming competition at school, as she imagines her arms reaching all the way to her mother's island home as she swims each lap. Jessenia's mami and younger brother, Luis, are on hand to watch her triumph in the final race of her swim meet in this story that incorporates details of her bicultural heritage into an easy sports story for young readers. Hector Viveros Lee's pencil and watercolor illustrations aptly capture the blue hues of the swimming pool and of the blue skies of Puerto Rico that exist in Jessenia's imagination. (Ages 5-8)

The day of the big swim meet has finally arrived, and Jessenia is excited, but a bit worried too.

The day of the big swim meet has finally arrived, and Jessenia is excited, but a bit worried too. It's her first meet away from home, and the other team is on a winning streak. Her coach tells the team that everyone is equal in the water, but Jessenia wonders if their team spirit is really enough to lead them to victory.

Readers of all ages will root with Jessenia's mother and little brother, Luis, for the team as they dive into the challenge of competition. Get Set! Swim! is the perfect reminder for young athletes that teamwork and pride are sometimes the truest victories of all.