Sally Osterhoff is a genius. When she grows up, she wants to be a mathematician, a teacher, and a carpenter—and she plans to swim in the 1968—and 1972—Olympics. But her mother has other goals, and she won’t hesitate to emotionally and physically abuse Sally in order to reach them. After all, she believes she only wants what is best for her child. With Sally’s father trying his very best to be the parent she needs, the family next door practically adopting her, and the encouragement of her aunt and uncle down in Ocean City (where she spends her summers), Sally just might have enough support and love to make all of her dreams come true. Set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights era, the Vietnam War, and the early feminist movement, DOWNEYSHUN explores the power of found family and how unconditional love can come from the least expected of places. It is a not-always-sentimental vacation to the '50s, '60s, and '70s. Bring your swimsuit.