Swimming Toward a Dream
Book Summary:
Swimming Toward a Dream tells the true story of Yusra Mardini, a young Syrian swimmer forced to flee her home because of war. During her journey as a refugee, Yusra uses her swimming skills to help save lives and continues training despite many obstacles. Her perseverance eventually leads her to compete in the Olympics, showing how hope and determination can survive even in the most difficult circumstances.
Recommended Questions:
Why did Yusra and her family have to leave their home? What dangers and challenges did they face as refugees during their journey?
How did Yusra use her swimming skills to help others while fleeing Syria? Why was this action important for the safety and survival of the group?
What obstacles did Yusra face in continuing her dream of swimming, and how did she respond to those challenges?
How does Yusra’s story help us better understand the experiences of refugees around the world?
Create a map showing the places Yusra traveled in her pursuit of safety, freedom, and a new home. How does mapping her journey help explain the geographic challenges refugees face?
Why do you think the Olympic Committee chose to include a Refugee Olympic Team for the first time in 2016? What message does this decision send to the world?
In what ways does Yusra demonstrate courage, responsibility, and leadership throughout the book?
What responsibilities do societies and governments have toward refugees? How might countries support refugees in ways that respect human rights, dignity, and safety?
Research and identify primary sources (such as interviews, photographs, or news articles) that document Yusra’s journey and achievements. Why are primary sources important for understanding her story?
How can learning about stories like Yusra’s help us think more deeply about fairness, human rights, and caring for others in today’s world?
NCSS Theme 10: Civic Ideals and Practices
This book centers on cultural traditions, values, and practices passed down through generations. Making tamales becomes a way for the family to express identity, preserve heritage, and strengthen community, helping students understand how culture shapes daily life and family traditions.
Social Justice Anchor Standard 13: Harmful impact of bias
The book shows how war and forced migration create unequal and dangerous conditions for refugees. Yusra’s journey helps students understand the human impact of injustice and displacement while challenging stereotypes about refugees. Through her story, students build empathy and awareness of global inequality.
WA Geography 3: Understands the geographic context of global issues and events
This book centers on forced migration caused by war and shows how movement across regions and countries shapes people’s lives. Yusra’s journey as a refugee helps students understand global issues such as conflict, displacement, borders, and access to safety. The story encourages students to examine how geographic location and movement affect human experiences and opportunities.
