Offering a message of hope, this book serves as a source of encouragement for those feeling defeated in life's challenges. It addresses the struggles of feeling overwhelmed and lost, likening the experience to free falling with a defective parachute. Through relatable reflections on failure and self-identity, it aims to uplift readers who are grappling with despair, reminding them that they are not alone in their journey.
The memoir delves into the complexities of growing up in a chaotic family with eccentric parents, focusing on the experiences of five siblings navigating their lives. It reveals the often-overlooked challenges of competitive swimming, highlighting the isolation and immense effort required to reach elite levels. Through personal anecdotes, the author sheds light on the darker aspects of the sport, offering a candid perspective on the sacrifices and pressures faced by young athletes.
After twenty-four-year-old Kim falls in love with and marries fifty-six-year- old Vern, she quickly becomes pregnant-only to have their love tested by the ghosts of Vern's past, his failing health, and the unexpected arrival of a troubled young boy.
Interweaving a tumultuous family tale of eccentric parents and five kids left to fend for themselves with an eye-opening view of the often-hidden dark side of competitive swimming, this compelling memoir provides a glimpse into the isolation as well as the backbreaking and sometimes soul-crushing work necessary to achieve elite status in the competitive swimming world.