Swimming Toward a Dream

Growing up in Damascus, the pool was Yusra Mardinis happy place. She learned to swim before she could walk. And with swimming came a dream - to compete in the Olympic games. But when war came to Syria, Yusras home - and her pool - were no longer safe. Yusra and her sister set out on a harrowing journey, crossing the sea in search of safety. In the inspirational tale that follows, Yusras courageous spirit shines. Crammed on a too-small refugee boat, disaster strikes when the boats motor breaks! Scared but determined, Yusra plunges into the water and starts swimming. Infused with hope, Yusras story encourages readers to pursue their own dreams, revealing how she met waves of danger with strength and perseverance. One breath at a time. Readers will dive into this courageous tale of an athlete, refugee, and hero who inspired the world with her resolve to pursue her Olympic dream.