Boss of the Pool

Boss of the Pool centers on Shelley, a teenager who must spend her summer holidays at the disability hostel where her mother works. At the hostel, she encounters Ben, a resident who forms a connection with her despite his intense fear of water. The story takes place largely around the hostel's swimming pool, where Shelley finds herself drawn into helping Ben face his aquatic fears. The narrative follows their interactions during the summer as Shelley learns to navigate this unexpected environment and relationship. Set in Australia and published in 1986, this children's book presents a straightforward look at disability, fear, and human connection. Key characters face practical and emotional challenges in the institutional setting. The novel explores themes of personal growth, empathy, and the barriers between people with and without disabilities. Through its focus on everyday interactions, the book addresses how understanding can develop between individuals from different backgrounds.

Readers appreciate this book's realistic portrayal of disability and its impact on changing attitudes toward people with disabilities. Many note it works well as a teaching tool for children ages 8-12 to build empathy and understanding. Readers highlight: - Natural character development of Shelley's perspective - Age-appropriate handling of serious themes - Short length makes it accessible for reluctant readers Common criticisms: - Some dated language and attitudes (book published 1986) - Simple plot may not engage older readers - Limited availability outside Australia Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (147 ratings) - "Perfect for classroom discussions about acceptance" - Teacher reviewer - "Helped my students understand disability without being preachy" - School librarian Common reader comment: The swimming pool setting resonates with Australian readers who recall similar childhood experiences. Limited reviews on other platforms due to book's regional focus and age.

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🔸 The novel won multiple awards in Australia, including being shortlisted for the Children's Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Award in 1987. 🔸 Author Robin Klein has written over 40 books, with many exploring themes of social justice and personal transformation in Australian settings. 🔸 Hydrotherapy pools, like the one featured in the book, became increasingly common in disability care facilities during the 1980s as their therapeutic benefits gained recognition. 🔸 The book was one of the first mainstream young adult novels to feature characters with disabilities as fully developed individuals rather than just symbolic figures. 🔸 Klein drew inspiration for the story from her own experiences working with children with disabilities during her early career as a teacher's aide.