An anthology not just of wild swimming writing, but also of stories of how a jump into deep waters can change us. From gentle dips in calm waters to fights for survival in stormy seas and moments of revelation amidst the waves.

Gasp at the cold with Amy Liptrot, marvel at the 19th century sea-cure craze with Jane Austen, be transfixed by Iris Murdoch's monster rising from the waves, slip into the river with Mark Twain.

Learn how to swim with the frogs with John Muir, fight the rapid tide with Lord Byron, let go of everything with Tove Jansson.

Open water swimming plays a pivotal role in many great stories, from Homer's Odyssey to contemporary poetry and memoir. There is adventure here and playfulness. Love and desire spark between characters at the edge of the water, as well as freedom from constraint.

It's a dip into the deep sea of words. Slide in.