Why We Swim

In Why We Swim, Bonnie Tsui embarks on a captivating journey to explore our intrinsic bond with water and the remarkable skill of swimming. This eloquent narrative delves deep into the multifaceted reasons why humans are irresistibly drawn to water. Through an engaging blend of personal anecdotes, historical facts, and captivating stories, Tsui examines the diverse motivations behind our need to swim.

The book is thoughtfully structured around five compelling themes: survival, wellbeing, community, competition, and flow. Tsui brings each of these themes to life by sharing fascinating stories from around the globe. You'll meet polar swim champions who defy the icy grasp of winter waters, members of a Baghdad swim club who find solace amidst conflict, legendary Olympian athletes who push the boundaries of human capabilities, and modern-day samurai swimmers whose spiritual journeys intertwine with the art of swimming.

James Nestor, bestselling author of Breath, describes the book as, "A jewel of a book, a paean to the wonders of water and our place within it." The New York Times praises it as "Glorious." These endorsements only scratch the surface of what makes this work so extraordinary.

Tsiu's prose is a joyous meditation on our innate connection to water. It illuminates how swimming transcends mere physicality to become a source of healing, unity, and profound joy. The narrative is as fluid and inviting as the subject itself, making it a must-read for anyone curious about the deeper currents that pull us to the water.

Why We Swim is more than a book about swimming; it is a celebration of the wonders of water and an ode to the human spirit's endless pursuit of connection and meaning. As you dive into its pages, prepare to be swept away by the beauty and depth of Tsui's storytelling.