The Great Swim

Title: The Great Swim

Author: Gavin Mortimer

Summary: During the summer of 1926 the eyes of the world turned to Europe, specifically the small strip of water that separated the British Isles from France. Four American women had announced their intentions to swim the English Channel. The first swimmer to accomplish that feat would be the first woman to ever complete the channel swim, joining elite group of male athletes who had managed to navigate the channel. Women had been making huge strides in the realm of athletics, steadily setting aside stereotypes and prejudices. Four women, Gertrude Ederle, Mille Gade, Lillian Cannon and Clarabelle Barrett, completely different but each possessed the desire to be first to complete the swim. Each knew the accomplishment would thrust them into the public spotlight and could better their fortunes and futures. The public interest after their swims was beyond anything anyone could imagine, and changed their lives. The Great Swim captures the giddy optimism of the 1920's and the emergence of women as a force in the world. Using diaries, newspaper archives, and primary sources Gavin Mortimer brings to life the excitement that surrounded the swims, the people supporting the swimmers and the swimmers themselves. It is a unique glimpse into the "roaring twenties" and the way the idea of a lone female swimmer taking on the channel captured the American public's imagination. It is also a cautionary tale of public adulation, the power of the press and greed. An engrossing read.

Recommendation: I found this book a little hard to read because it is crammed full of facts. The human side of the story is very engrossing. A good read for anyone interested in the evolution of women's sports or swimming.

Hearts: 3