New Release from Blue Dasher Press: Swimming to Chicago by Wren Valentino

Blue Dasher Press is thrilled to announce the release of the young adult novel Swimming to Chicago by bestselling author Wren Valentino. Now available in paperback and ebook formats, this powerful coming-of-age story explores grief, identity, and the kind of friendships that shape us forever.

About the Book:

Reeling from his mother’s suicide, seventeen-year-old Alex Bainbridge isolates himself from the world—often escaping to a secluded island behind his house. As an Armenian teen growing up in a small Southern town, Alex struggles to feel seen. His fierce friendship with the outspoken Jillian Dambro is his lifeline—until he meets Robby LaMont, a quiet new student who understands Alex in ways no one else ever has.

As their final year of high school unfolds and the adults in their lives spin out of control, Alex, Jillian, and Robby form an unbreakable bond. United by love and loyalty, the three make a bold decision to chart their own future—one that will test their courage and change their lives forever.

Author’s Inspiration:

In a note about his creative process, Wren Valentino shares:

“Swimming to Chicago was born out of music, memory, and emotion. I listened to a lot of Garbage and Metric while writing this book—those songs became a kind of emotional map for the characters. Their lyrics helped me tap into the rawness of Alex’s grief and the hope that emerges when you find people who truly see you. Both bands are mentioned in the book because their influence was so deeply felt during the writing process.”

Poignant, poetic, and ultimately hopeful, Swimming to Chicago is a must-read for fans of emotionally honest YA fiction.

Available Now:

Swimming to Chicago is now available in paperback and ebook through major retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and indie bookstores.

For more news on upcoming releases and behind-the-scenes insights, stay connected with Blue Dasher Press.