Aktil, a young mouse, sets out to swim the English Channel. Helped by a mackerel and a seagull, he reaches France, and becomes a true Channel hero.

The acclaimed artist and author invites readers to dip into the many joys of swimming in this beautifully illustrate and “loving homage to aquatic bliss” (Brain Pickings). Best known as an artist, illustrator, and author, Lisa Congdon is also a record-breaking long-distance swimmer. Now she shares her personal passion for swimming in this beautiful and thoughtful celebration of getting in the water. Hand-lettered inspirational quotes and watercolor portraits are paired with real people's personal stories. Illustrated collections of vintage objects—such as colorful swim caps, traditional pool signs, and bathing suits through the ages—evoke the beauty and inspiration of the subject. An emphasis on swimming as a way of life—from taking a leap to going with the flow—makes this delightful volume a must-have for serious swimmers, vacation paddlers, and anyone pondering their next high dive.

Loving cats so much that he has more feline than human companions on his ship, Captain Cat arrives on a remote island overrun by rats that his feline charges rapidly trounce, a triumph that culminates in a lucrative offer that requires a difficult decision.