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Swell
A Waterbiography The Sunday Times SPORT BOOK OF THE YEAR 2017
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Check link for latest rating. ( 314 ratings, 59 reviews)
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Format: Paperback / softback
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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?
This book will appeal to readers interested in sports history, women's rights, and social change, as well as swimming enthusiasts and those who enjoy memoirs with a humorous and insightful tone.
A funny and bold account of how women fought their way into the water, and of what they did once they got there.
Shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year 2017. Part social history, part memoir, Swell shines a light on the ‘swimming suffragettes’.
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Description
SHORTLISTED FOR THE WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR 2017
Part social history, part memoir, Swell shines a light on the ‘swimming suffragettes’.
These days, swimming may seem like an egalitarian pastime, open to anyone with a swimsuit – but this wasn’t always the case. In the 19th century, swimming was almost exclusively the domain of men. Women were (barely) allowed to swim in the sea, but even into the 20th century they could be arrested if they dared dive into a lake. It wasn’t until the 1930s that women were reluctantly granted equal access. This is the story of the swimming suffragettes who made that possible; women who took on the status quo, and won.
Swell celebrates some amazing achievements, some ridiculous outfits and some fantastic swimmers who challenge the stereotypes of what women are capable of. It’s also the story of how Jenny eventually came to be a keen swimmer herself.
This book is a joyful hymn to the sport and an exploration of why swimming attracts so many women. It is dedicated to our brilliant swimming foremothers who collectively made it possible for any woman to plunge in however and wherever we choose.
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?
Swell is praised for its instructive and often humorous recounting of forgotten stories in women's sports history. It is described as a brilliantly funny, inspiring, and joyful read that appeals to both swimmers and non-swimmers alike. The writing's witty tone and engaging storytelling make it feel like a lively stand-up routine. Notable endorsements include recommendations from The Times, Daily Mail, and New Statesman, highlighting the book's unique blend of memoir and social history.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781472938961
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 08 February 2018
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Bloomsbury Sport
Illustration: 1 x 16 page colour plate section
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 22.0mm
Width: 130.0mm
Height: 196.0mm
Weight: 290g
Pages: 352
About the Author
Jenny Landreth is a script editor and writer. She has written two guide books – on the great trees of London, and on the best places to swim in the capital. Jenny was the main contributor to the Guardian’s weekly swimming blog, writing on everything from pool rules, to swimming with children, and where to swim in New York. She lives in London. @jennylandreth
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