ST. CHARLES – A St. Charles woman and her son have written a book inspired by the memories of the many swimmers they have taught over the years, according to a news release.

Joan Leonard and her son, Peter, wrote “I’d Rather Be Swimming!” to teach the fundamentals of swimming to young readers, the release stated. The book’s illustrations were completed by the Leonards and Beverly Martin Mason.

The Leonards will hold a book signing for “I’d Rather Be Swimming!” from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 12 at Town House Books and Cafe, 105 N. 2nd Ave., St. Charles.

The book depicts Leo the Sea Lion and his friends describing seven essential swimming skills through the use of rhymes and simple yet detailed descriptions, according to the release.

Children will learn various swimming strokes and many water games featured in the book, the release stated.

Included within “I’d Rather Be Swimming!” are illustrations to color, an online video link, diary pages and swimming progress sheets, according to the release. By using these tools, the authors guarantee readers will increase their knowledge of safely swimming for fitness and quality of life.

The backyard pool of Joan Leonard and her late husband, Bob, dates to 1971, and Joan Leonard is inviting the families of former students who took swimming lessons in that pool to a special book signing. The event, which includes a free copy of “I’d Rather Be Swimming!” for past swimming families, will be from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Joan Leonard’s St. Charles home.

As the founder and matriarch of Leonard Swimming Instruction, Joan Leonard attained numerous Red Cross certifications and has taught swimming in her backyard pool, at area YMCAs, the Norris Recreation Center and Pottawatomie Park pools in St. Charles, the release stated.

Peter Leonard took Red Cross water safety instructor and lifeguard training as a teen, as well as scuba certification in college. He attended Utah State University and taught swimming lessons as he pursued careers in the Army and education, according to the release.

If you go

What: Book signing for “I’d Rather Be Swimming!” by Joan and Peter Leonard

When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 12

Where: Town House Books and Cafe, 105 N. 2nd Ave., St. Charles