5 classmates with little ties to one another go through life changing events that intersect in a way and bring them close.

I enjoyed this book and it's definitely one that's up my alley with the subject matter. I do have to say that sometimes the switching between the 5 different perspectives made it somewhat difficult to follow, but still a great read nonetheless. I would highly recommend this read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing a copy in exchange for my honest review.

Never before have I ever read a more profound book. Suicide is a hard topic to talk about. But the way that Julie writes this story, she doesn't leave you feeling heavy or depressed. She gives you hope instead. As a adult or parent, she makes me want to go out and change the world. To let children and even adults know that they are not alone. That they are never alone. As a teenager, I can only hope that they feel like they can ask for help if they are ever feeling the same as the main character or even the side characters were feeling. That there is always someone that can help.

This novel all takes place within 24 hrs. Covering Addison's first day back to school in journal form, after her attempt to also a few other students that were dealing with their own issues. While there were some serious situations hinted on, Julie never makes the reader uncomfortable with details. You get the point of the story.

I can't recommend this book enough. I feel like many youth need to read this, and same with adults. Parents, and teachers alike.

This book has some heavy themes and so I wasn't sure what to expect from it at first. I found myself surprised and enamoured at how the author managed to weave 4 different stories into one all whilst spreading a positive message and discussing important topics. The formatting of this book with Addison writing in first person feels as though she's talking directly to us made me instantly connect with her brutal and raw emotional honesty. It's not often that a multiple perspective book can have such diverse and interesting characters, there's usually one that you always want to skip but with this I was always excited to see what was happening. I was fully invested in each character and I loved how each story interconnected, it just goes to show that even the smallest act of kindness can change a life.

Thank you Shadow Mountain publishing with the ARC copy via Netgalley. All thoughts are my own!

Content: major warning for suicide and depression, mild child abuse

This is the story of . Who has just tried to commit suicide. It is the story of how she comes back to school and bounces back thanks to friends who chose to treat her with love and respect. Her friends make sure she feels that someone cares.

I loved this one! I feel like there are not enough realistic teen books geared towards young teenagers. This book is so powerful. I highly recommend it for teenagers that want to know what to do after finding out their friend is struggling.

Read if you enjoy reading about:
💞True friends
🧠Mental illness
💪🏼Overcoming challenges
🎒Teenagers going to school

I received an advance copy of Swimming in a Sea of Stars by Julie Wright from the publisher via NetGalley. The story follows five teens in a single day, is told through Addison’s journal entries and alternating POVs, and features characters dealing with mental health issues. (Trigger Warning: This story contains discussion of suicide.)

This character driven story doesn’t have much that occurs plot-wise, but it provides perspective about mental health and the struggles people hide behind their outward facing mask. At the end of the story, none of their problems are resolved. However, I felt such a strong sense of hope and new beginnings for the characters that I teared up. I truly loved the journey Wright took me on in this book.

I highly recommend this book for anyone that enjoys character driven stories or those looking to add books that feature mental health, especially depression, to their collection.

As a side note, all my journaling friends may enjoy the fact that this story is very pro journaling. Every chapter started with an entry from Addison’s journal. I loved that it was featured!

Such a good book! It is geared towards teens, but is such a good reminder to be kind. A reminder that everyone, literally EVERYONE is going through stuff you have no idea about. Even if their life looks perfect and that nothing ever goes wrong in their life, behind closed doors there is stuff going on.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It covers several people and the issues they are facing, whether visible or things people have no idea about. Some parts can be heartbreaking. And by the end, your heart is mended just enough to be convinced there is good people in the world!

Swimming in a Sea of Stars by Julie Wright
This book was such a beautiful story of humanity and how we all can bring light to those around us by reaching out and just being kind people. This book touches on so many hard and deep topics in such a compelling read that left me with a feeling of immense hope. That no matter what struggles everyone is going through, there is hope and there is light, we just need to reach out and look for it. I loved all the different perspectives and how each story line overlapped in such small moments that made a huge impact. Definitely recommend this as a read for both teenagers and adults.

#SwimminginaSeaofStars #NetGalley

Swimming in a Sea of Stars is the story of five teenagers going through their individual struggles set over the course of a school day. It’s a short and easy read that’s more character driven rather than plot driven.

I really liked how we got to learn more about the characters throughout the story and it tackles how we don’t think we matter but to other people we mean the world. It was fun seeing how one character viewed something only for another character to have another perspective on it.

This book was well-written and covered very tough subject matter from the perspectives of several teenagers over the course of a day or two.

The topics broached were suicide, abuse, cancer, friendships, sick family members, popularity, and bullying. This is a good reminder to teenagers and adults alike that all is not what it seems. This story took a very realistic approach, There wasn't really a happily ever after because life doesn't end after a couple of days.

This book really examines the importance of communication. Not every conversation is going to save the world, but sometimes it is better to say things rather than hold them in because it is hard

This story was beautifully written in it's approach as it examined the real feelings of these teenagers. It is a good reminder to look beyond the surface and help where we can.

I feel blessed to have been able to read this story that shows us we are all connected, even when it seems we are alone in a sea of stars.

I received an eARC from the publisher as requested through NetGalley and this is my honest review.

This is a book about the importance of each person. “We’re all interconnected, like the stars in the night sky that form constellations and map out the universe, and even if one star goes missing, the effect is profound.” (Back cover)

All five of the main characters are teenagers going through something difficult that nobody else knows about. “Everyone is trying to keep from downing in their own oceans and everyone needs help.” p 246
Addison Thoreau has a secret problem severe enough she tried to kill herself. It didn’t fix anything and now everyone is gossiping about her.
Booker Williams was her boyfriend until he tried to kiss her, then everything fell apart.
Celia Martin likes school because she can escape from the severe abuse she receives at home.
Damion Archer is very popular on TikTok but not everyone is kind.
Avery Winters doesn’t have any friends, her older brother is in jail for dealing drugs.

This book was a lot heavier than I expected. The focus is on teenage mental health and suicide, but also addresses physical, sexual, and verbal abuse, online bullying, foster care, cancer, and Alzheimer’s. Unfortunately, I think most of us know someone who died of suicide or attempted to. I think this is an important and necessary topic, but don’t go into it expecting a typical light read like with most fiction. Thanks to Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC to use for my review.

This book was not what I expected. In a good way!

The book takes place over one day (and that day happens to be on a student’s return to high school after attempting to commit suicide so definitely TW). This book is written so well and describes life and struggles happen to everyone. It was not too heavy but definitely left you with thoughts and emotions.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read and review.

This is a story of young adults dealing with physical and mental stress and illness in a variety of forms. I went into this book blind. Not really knowing what it was about, so when I started reading I really struggled. I had a hard time focusing on multiple characters and perspectives. Everything just seem jumbled. I have read this author before, but other genres and very much enjoy her writing style. So hence why I chose to read this book and why I chose to push through when I was struggling.
I think if it had focused on one character and had all the others as sub characters, maybe it would’ve been easier for me to relate to.
In the long run, I felt like the story had a great message. I myself am out of teenage years as well as my children but my grand children will be coming up on them sooner than I would like. And I am concerned for society as a whole because of the pressures and demands put on younger people all the time. So I know this book is an important lesson on how to listen, be excepting and being observant of those around us. And to be aware that this is not just a teenage issue. I am happy that I pushed my way to the end. It gave myself a better perspective of the lives around me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A little hard to follow, bouncing between characters, but overall they were compelling. Everyone has secrets and life issues, no matter what they may appear like on the outside. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Thank you Netgalley and Shadow Mountain for the chance to read an advance copy of Swimming in a sea of stars by Julie Wright. This is a YA book about a teenager going back to school after a suicide attempt. It is written in partial diary format and multi POV's as Addison heads back to school. Her therapist has suggested she keep a diary, and that is how each chapter starts. I think this is a book that teenagers should definitely read, however I wasn't a fan of the writing style. It reminded me of Dear Evan Hanson, so if you liked the play this might be something you will enjoy. 21/2 stars rounded up.

Addison is facing her first day back at school following a suicide attempt. She's still trying to come to terms with it all herself, and is all too aware of the attention she's going to attract from the curious - which is basically the entire school. But others are struggling with their own problems too. Can this small group of students make a difference for the better in each others lives in this one day? Even small things can help - or hinder. And how much does one life really matter? The answer might not be what you would expect.

I wasn't really sure what to expect of this book, but it definitely exceeded my expectations. I thought such an introduction to a bunch of (initially quite disconnected) characters could leave me a bit confused, but I found them surprisingly easy to keep track of - and to care about. I loved the way that we got to see inside each person's head as well as seeing them from the outside, so that you see both the mask and the truth - which can be very different. I also really appreciated the twin messages that even small things can make a difference to someone else, and that each person matters. In fact, my only problem with the book was that I wanted more - maybe another book about each person/couple? After all, I really felt like I got to know and care about them, and one day out of a lifetime just isn't enough, though it worked well for this book. All in all, a thought-provoking and inspiring book - highly recommended (and not just for a young adult audience).

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

This is a great book for teens struggling with mental illness. It does only cover a “day in the life” of several teens struggling through a variety of things from attempted suicide to cyber bullying. It only touches the surface but it was beautifully written on difficult subjects.

“One light makes all the difference.”

I loved this book! Going into it, I worried that it would be “sad” or “heavy.” It was just the opposite. Though there are things that will tug on your heartstrings, it’s ultimately hopeful. It shows how just one person can make a difference, even if it’s just a simple greeting. Told in a “day in the life” format, this story shares the struggles of five teenagers over the course of one day. It’s beautifully written with careful sensitivity to readers going through struggles like suicide, parental death/illness, abuse, cancer, drug dealing, and economic struggles.

Addison dreads her first day back at school after her suicide attempt. She carefully selects a jacket with long sleeves to hide her scars. Her therapist recommended keeping a gratitude journal, so through the course of the day, she shares her thoughts and feelings. What she doesn’t realize, is how her interactions make a huge impact on others.

Booker doesn’t know what to think about Addison. They’ve been friends for a long time which led to him wanting to kiss her. But, she ran away and then the next thing he knows, she’s in the hospital. Is he somehow to blame? He’s also trying to come to terms with his cousin’s cancer diagnosis.

Celia is trapped in an abusive situation. She loves her mother, but her mother’s drug use, abuse and abusive boyfriend are putting her life in danger. When a kind person offers her a jacket and advice, Celia has to decide if she’s willing to tell someone what’s happening to her.

Damion’s social media star world revolves around content and a positive image. Yet, behind his fame is a young man dealing with a devastating parental diagnosis. Being on the Hope Squad, he knows he needs to do something to help Addison readjust to coming back to school. He also needs to be seen doing it to improve his image. His interactions throughout the day change his perceptions, and he might just get the real support he needs in return

Avery’s brother is in prison for drug dealing. After her mother died, her whole family fell apart. She longs to reach out to people, but it’s hard. She feels like she’s looked down on because of where she lives and her brother’s choices. But, Avery realizes she can make a difference and before the day is out, she may just renew friendships and create new ones.

I enjoyed the way all these characters interacted with each other. It really shows how one person can affect another just in the course of a day. Really listening and paying attention are so key. I loved the way a simple greeting was viewed so differently. One person felt really lame, yet for another the greeting meant everything. The brilliant idea of having the whole book take place in one day was so well done. At the end, I wanted the story to continue and see what happened next for these kids I came to really care about.

Highly recommend this thoughtful, well written YA book! I’d definitely recommend it to teenagers. Though I would check the trigger warnings. While the author doesn’t give a lot of details and handles all the situations these kids face with respect and circumspection, any mention of these struggles may be triggering to some, so parents may want to read it first if there is any concern. I received an advanced complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.

Oh my goodness! This book is so necessary, and handles the hard topics of suicide, abuse, illness, and drugs with tenderness. It would be a fantastic read for every family with teenagers, and a great discussion starter.
Everyone is dealing with something, even when their lives may appear perfect. Not judging, not assuming-just asking and learning about people does make a difference.
Healing, hope, friendship, patience, and understanding get the teenagers in this story through the myriad of trials in their lives.
Favorite quotes:
*I'm in the ocean, the current tugging me under, and I'm drowning and waving at the people on the shore. But aren't we all like that? Is anyone actually on the shore?
Or are we all drowning and waving and hoping someone will see us?
Rescue us?"
"I want to be there for you, but in order for me to do that, I need you to be here. I need you to stay. I'm not saying you won't have more bad stuff in your future. I can't promise that, but I can promise that there will be good things too. I just don't want to see you miss the good."
The dedication page started the story off strong, and it just kept me reading the whole time.

'Swimming in a sea of stars' is a book that follows multiple adolescents who have hard things in their loves ranging from mental health, abuse, broken families, etc. The goal of this book, I believe is for young a adults to realize everyone is hiding something and n lone is alone in their trials of life. The downfall to this book is that every story is so extreme! Part abuse leads to a suicide attempt, extreme physical abuse is finally reportred, cyber bullying while dealing with a parent who has a degenerative disease and finally the mothrtless, sibling in jail but has a child scenario. Yes, these are real circumstances but there needs to be the one who is struggling just because life is hard. I fear most teenagers who turn to this book will walk away thinking 'well my life doesn't count. Apparently, I'm not 'bad enough off' to be depressed or have mental health issues.' These are the 'stars' that need to be mentioned and voiced as well.
Overall writing was okay, just disappointed this was another sensationalized mental health story.

Swimming in a Sea of Stars has such important messages. It talks about a lot of heavy topics, such as suicide and abuse, but not in a way that is too overwhelming for a teenage audiance. It was a very eye-opening book about so many things that go on in the lives of high school students. It's a great reminder of how we all need to look outside of ourselves and show kindness, because we never know what the person next to us is going through. Julie Wright did a fantastic job with this book. I highly recommend it for teenagers and adults.