New Year, New You Sale ☀️- Up to 20% off 500+ books!

Freedom Swimmer

4.1 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 422 ratings, 84 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Freedom Swimmer by Wai Chim is a gripping and emotional story set during China's Cultural Revolution. It follows the journey of two teenagers, Ming and Li, who attempt a perilous escape to Hong Kong in search of a better life. Their friendship and bravery are tested as they face numerous trials, highlighting themes of hope, resilience, and the quest for freedom.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$1999
AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 3-4 weeks

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're drawn to powerful stories of friendship and resilience set against a historical backdrop. It offers a gripping narrative about two boys making a perilous journey to seek freedom, infused with themes of hope and courage amidst adversity. Perfect for readers interested in moving tales of adventure and survival.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Freedom Swimmer

This incredible tale about two boys' swim from mainland China to Hong Kong in search of freedom from poverty and oppression is inspired by a true story.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Freedom Swimmer tells the poignant story of Ming, a young boy who survived the famine that claimed his parents' lives during China's 'Great Leap Forward'. He lives a difficult yet sufficient life, working tirelessly in the fields.

When a group of city boys arrives at the village as part of a Communist Party re-education programme, Ming and his friends are unsure how to react. The new arrivals are unfamiliar with hard labour and village life. Despite his initial reservations, Ming strikes up a friendship with a charming city boy named Li. The two boys are vastly different, yet they gradually form a bond over evening swims and shared dreams.

As the harsh realities of life under the Party begin to affect both boys, they start to envision what once seemed impossible: freedom.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Freedom Swimmer by Wai Chim is highly regarded as an inspiring and emotional read. Reviewers praise the book for its vivid depiction of bravery and determination amidst challenging circumstances. The narrative's strong character development and evocative storytelling resonate with both young adults and older readers, providing a poignant glimpse into the historical context and personal journeys entwined.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781760113414

Publisher: A&U Children's

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 24 August 2016

Country: Australia

Imprint: A&U Children

Audience: Teenage

DIMENSIONS

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 248g

Pages: 272

About the Author

Wai was born in New York City. Although her parents didn't speak much English, Wai harboured a passion for books from a very young age, sneaking stories into bed to read well into the night.

Wai graduated from Duke University with majors in Economics and English. After graduation Wai moved to Japan, where she spent over a year teaching English.

She has lived in Australia for ten years, enjoying the sun and pursuing her passion for writing.

Wai Chim is also the author of a junior fiction series called Chook Chook.

Also by Wai Chim

View all

More from Young Adult

View all

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 80,000 books and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.