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4.5 AVERAGE
4.5 AVERAGE
Ellie loves her body just the way it is but just about everyone else makes her feel bad about herself. Her mom is always dragging her to different doctors trying to fix her, even implying surgery, her brother picks on her, the kids at school bully her, and her best friend Viv moved away at the end of the summer. But the new girl next door Catalina is looking for friends, jumping on her trampoline to say hi to Ellie in her favorite spot, the pool. Ellie’s dad starts bringing her to a therapist where she finally starts processing all of her feelings and learning to stand up for herself.
This powerful novel is a must read for everyone about standing up to your bullies and being happy with who you are inside and out.
This powerful novel is a must read for everyone about standing up to your bullies and being happy with who you are inside and out.
emotional
inspiring
sad
medium-paced
“The fat on my body never felt as heavy as your words on my heart.”
“Does everybody, make somebody feel like a nobody.”
Oh this is beautiful & heartbreaking. I adore good middle grade fiction & this one addresses bullying & what it’s like to be larger than average. This story is written in verse & will have you tearing up with each beautiful word. My heart hurt for Ellie… not only is she being bullied at school but her mother in an attempt to be helpful might be the worst bully of all. Ellie loves to swim & spend time in her pool where she feels safe. In the water, she can stretch herself out like a starfish and take up all the room she wants. It's also where she can get away from her pushy mom, who thinks criticizing Ellie's weight will motivate her to diet. But Ellie also has friends & a dad who are on her side & with the help of a therapist, maybe Ellie will learn how to live unapologetically & be her own fabulous self!
“I'm a starfish, taking up all the room I want.”
“It would be great if people realized that we’re all different, in all kinds of ways, and different is okay.”
For anyone who has felt less than because of what their body looks like - this is for you. This novel in free verse was a quick read. So powerful.
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I wish I had this book when I was younger. I will keep this book on my bookshelf and possibly reread when I get in my head too much. When the Rules start to speak louder than my own words. Honestly, one of the best books I have ever read. No matter the age
Wonderful novel-in-verse for all kids who are different and those who love them! Not many books show the progression and value of therapy.
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
accurate
This was definitely an accurate portrayal of the inner voice I’ve heard my whole life. The mom’s quotes and the way she spoke about food sound so incredibly familiar to me from “well meaning” people in my childhood.
This was definitely an accurate portrayal of the inner voice I’ve heard my whole life. The mom’s quotes and the way she spoke about food sound so incredibly familiar to me from “well meaning” people in my childhood.
Love, love, love! Read it in one sitting and couldn't put it down to go to bed. Ellie is so loveable, realistic and her experiences are heartbreaking. But with the help of her father, her friends and a quirky therapist she learns how to stand up for herself in ways that make you love her even more. What a book to discuss fat shaming, society expectations and bullying, but don't expect to read it without shedding a few tears.