Sakamoto's Swim Club: Book Guide, Author and Facts

Sakamoto's Swim Club by Julie Abery: plot, author, genre and where to read, in one evergreen guide.

By the Pop Culture Files editorial team•Updated August 15, 2026•3 min read•✓ Fact-checked

Sakamoto's Swim Club book cover — Cover via OpenLibrary · OpenLibrary

When the children of workers on a 1930s Maui sugar plantation were chased away from playing in the nearby irrigation ditches, local science teacher Soichi Sakamoto had an idea. He offered to take responsibility for the children — and then he began training them how to swim. Using his science background, Sakamoto devised his own innovative coaching techniques: he developed a strict practice regime for the kids, building their strength and endurance by using the ditch water’s natural current. The children worked hard under the dedicated Sakamoto’s guidance, and their skills improved. They formed a swim club and began to dominate in swimming events around the world. And then one day, the proud Sakamoto saw an impossible dream come true — Olympic gold!

Quick facts about Sakamoto's Swim Club

Title: Sakamoto's Swim Club
Author: Julie Abery
First published: 2021
Genre: picture books, children's books, sports
OpenLibrary ID: OL24508974W

Where to read Sakamoto's Swim Club

Sakamoto's Swim Club by Julie Abery is widely available in print, ebook and audiobook editions from major retailers and libraries.

Compiled from public OpenLibrary data. Availability and details can change over time.

Frequently asked questions

What is Sakamoto's Swim Club about?

When the children of workers on a 1930s Maui sugar plantation were chased away from playing in the nearby irrigation ditches, local science teacher Soichi Sakamoto had an idea.

Who wrote Sakamoto's Swim Club?

Sakamoto's Swim Club was written by Julie Abery.

When was Sakamoto's Swim Club published?

Sakamoto's Swim Club was first published in 2021.