Starfish is about a middle school girl who is overweight and is bullied relentlessly by her schoolmates, as well as her brother, sister, and mother. Ellie feels like she deserves the bullying and is desperate for acceptance for her she is. She confides in her dad, and he promises to help her. Her mother wants her to have bariatric surgery (at 11!), but Ellie's dad promises that won't happen. Ellie does have some friends who are good to her and she finds a therapist who helps her to get in touch with her feelings and confront her mother.
My heart broke for Ellie over and over. The meanness of people is astonishing and I know it happens. I think this is an important book for children and adults to read as it may help them to understand how hurtful their criticisms are, and perhaps will change their attitudes.
I am thankful that the author wrote this book, and am sorry that she herself experienced these hurtful people and comments.
My heart broke for Ellie over and over. The meanness of people is astonishing and I know it happens. I think this is an important book for children and adults to read as it may help them to understand how hurtful their criticisms are, and perhaps will change their attitudes.
I am thankful that the author wrote this book, and am sorry that she herself experienced these hurtful people and comments.