Puzzles appear throughout the novel as a significant symbol and motif. What is the role of illustrations of puzzles in this novel? What do puzzles and puzzle pieces signal to readers?

Why do you think Johnnie Christmas decided to use the graphic novel format for Swim Team? How do the illustrations add to the story? How would the story be different without them?

Consider how Bree has grown and developed as a character over the course of the novel. What challenges or anxieties might Bree encounter in the future? How could she apply the skills she learns in the novel to those future challenges?