The First Rule of Swimming focuses on the relationship between sisters, Magdalena and Jadranka. Magdalena is close with her family and feels tied to their Croatian island home. Jadranka, on the other hand, has a wild spirit and flees from the restraints her home life has placed on her. When Jadranka goes missing for an extended time, Magdalena knows something is not right. Her sister never leaves for long. Magdalena leaves her island home and ventures out into the world her sister has embraced. The narrative effortless transitions from the present day, to the childhood of Magdalena and Jadranka. Secrets and unveiled and family life will be forever altered as Magdalena’s search goes on.This novel was a slow build but it leads to a very satisfying ending. The family dynamic was engaging and relatable to all sisters who have strong, but fractured relationships.