The Swimmers by Julie Otsuka

The book is a poignant exploration of community, memory, and the human condition, centered around a group of swimmers who find solace and connection in their local underground pool. When a crack appears in the pool's bottom, the swimmers are dispersed, and the narrative shifts focus to one of them, a woman succumbing to dementia. As her memory deteriorates, the story delves into her past and the experiences of her Japanese American family, touching on themes of displacement, identity, and the enduring impact of internment during World War II. The narrative weaves together the collective and personal, creating a tapestry of lives affected by loss, change, and the relentless passage of time.

The 10491st greatest book of all time

Ranking Details:

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Total Points: 54

Since this book was first published in 2022, there is a penalty of 76.8%. The age adjusted score is 12.53.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.