I wrote Cannonball Chris after I saw my son Dan use the cannonball strategy at a neighbor's pool.  I think he was in first grade at the time. He was afraid to jump in the deep end so he went to the shallow end and started a cannonball contest.  All a story needs is a main character with a problem that gets solved!  Real life is good inspiration. Happy swimming! 

Bank Street Child Study Children’s Book List

“Marzollo uses a simple, but not simplistic, text to provide children with a basic approach to conquering fears by naming them. With guidance and understanding from his father, Chris names his fear of jumping into deep water, “The Underwater Pit.” The text flows and will hold the interest of readers who will want to know if Chris succeeds in overcoming his fear.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL