Important reading

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Certainly not a light read, The Girls at 17 Swann Street deals with anorexia; a disease that is very real and can take your life if you aren't careful.
The Girls at 17 Swann Street is an honest, unflinching, but fundamental hopeful portrayal of anorexia and the struggles of recovery. Anna enters treatment at the beginning of the novel primarily at the persistence of her husband, who is at the end of his rope and fearful that he wouldn't be able to keep her alive on his own. She is resistant to the idea of treatment at that time, filled up with fear and denial.

Anna doesn't feel the treatment center really knows what she needs. After all, she's been fine up till now. So what that she doesn't eat. So what that she doesn't find anything fun anymore because she's so worried about the food she isn't eating. She can handle it on her own. That is just the attitude she goes in with but what comes after will bring tears to your eyes. For Anna's bravery, is beautifully written and portrayed by the author.

I fell hard in love with this book and the writing style. The emotional connection I felt toward Anna was instant. There was no judgement towards her; just sorrow, encouragement, and joy. Everyone from the staff to Anna's husband, Matthias, as well as the other girls, were all so supportive of each other. They really looked out for one another and that made me smile. Through all the emotions you feel as a reader while reading Anna's story, you also feel joy and happiness at all the things she goes through. Every mountain she climbs is just another reminder that anything is possible if you just give yourself a chance.