Originally published in 2018, The Boy in the Water is accurately described by Google Books as "The poignant, life-affirming story of a determined boy, a visionary coach and how the dream of a record-breaking Channel swim became a reality for an 11 yr old boy from Eltham, South London."

In 1988, 11-year-old Thomas ("Tefal") Gregory set the record for being the youngest person ever to swim the French - English channel and for circumstances which occurred shortly after the event, his record became a permanent one, which can never be broken. His book recalls his early years of training, the agonising swim itself and his tough, determined coach who helped him through it all. The story is also a tribute to his parents and beloved sister, Anna, who believed in him and supported him through his challenge.

Verdict: This book celebrates hard work, perseverance, family and the pursuit of a dream. Beautifully written and a riveting story, it is also a page-turner. Big thumbs up from irishparents!

warning: The coach uses the F word a few times in the book and during the big swim itself, "Tefal"  uses the F word a couple of times under his breath.