This book about a girl’s struggle with bulimia is realistic but not too mature, making it a good choice for middle schoolers of all ages.
Recommended grade level: 6-9
Pages: 172 (for ISBN 9781571316516)
Genre(s) and keywords: realistic fiction
Tone/Style: depressed
Pace: moderate to fast
Topics: bulimia, therapy groups, loss of a parent, parents with mental illness, friends who are negative influences
Themes: grief and loss, unhealthy coping, siblings, parent/child relationships, family
Summary: Isabelle Lee is a typical, wisecracking, middle-of-the-pack girl who happens to be dealing with some big issues. Her father has died and no one—especially her mother—wants to talk about it. Meanwhile, Isabelle’s sister, who used to be nine and charming, has ruined everything by ratting Isabelle out to their mom about her eating disorder. Continue reading →