Underwater: A Novel

After a tragedy, she feels like shes stuck underwater.On October fifteenth, everything changed. That was the day that Morgan tried to do something kindand inadvertently played a role in a deadly tragedy. Before, Morgan loved the beach and the smell of the ocean breeze. Before, Morgan competed on the school swim team and savored the rush she would get from being underwater. Now, Morgan cant move on. She is unable to even move beyond the front door of the apartment she shares with her mother and little brother. Morgan feels like shes underwater, unable to surface. Unable to see her friends. Unable to go to school. The only person she interacts with besides her family is Brenda, her psychologist. Breathe, Brenda tells her, but Morgan doesnt feel like she can. Before Morgan can step outside, she must find the courage to forgive--first someone who did something that might be unforgivable, and finally herself. Underwater is a powerful, hopeful young adult debut novel by Marisa Reichardt about redemption, recovery, and finding the strength it takes to face your past and move on. Debut author Reichardt doesnt oversimplify: Morgan isnt saved by love; rather, new neighbor Evan reminds her of life and what its like to have a friend. As Evan, who has his own connection to the shooting, tells her, what he likes about Morgan is that shes real, and thats exactly what readers will appreciate about this book. --Publishers Weekly, starred reviewA moving, reflective exploration of grief, trauma, and how individuals find their paths toward resilience. --Kirkus ReviewsDebut author Reichardt smartly reveals the source of Morgans agoraphobia--a school shooting--very gradually, which, along with the sweet romance with Evan, urges the plot forward. --Booklist