Swimming Upstream : Middle School Poems

Capturing the moments children experience in middle school in lively verse, an award-winning poet describes an array of challenges kids face--making new friends, moving from class to class, tests and homework--told from the point of view of a new middle schooler. Lively illustrations complement this perceptive, humorous, poignant record of an important transitional year. Illustrations.

Award-winning poet Kristine O’Connell George, author of several successful picture books, now turns her attention to the middle school experience. The first year brings an array of challenges: making new friends, moving from class to class, tests and homework, changing for PE, gossip, school dances, and, of course, budding romance. Short, accessible poems in a variety of forms, but all in a single voice—that of a new middle schooler—evoke the memorable moments of the school year, exploring situations and emotions that will resonate with preteens. Lively illustrations complement this perceptive, humorous, poignant record of an important transitional year.