Julie Orringer's 'How to Breathe Underwater' is a compelling collection of nine stories that explore the turbulent waters of childhood and adolescence. With lyrical prose and acute emotional insight, Orringer plunges readers into the intimate worlds of characters grappling with loss and the brink of adulthood. From the holiday chaos of motherless children in 'Pilgrims' to the dark undercurrents of 'The Isabel Fish', each narrative delves into the formative experiences that shape us. We witness the complexities of family, the pain of social exclusion, and the bittersweet triumphs of growing up. Orringer charts these young lives with tenderness and a profound sense of humanity, offering a reflection on how we navigate the depths of our experiences and ultimately find the breath to rise again.