Starfish

Ellie has been bullied about her weight, so she tries to live by the Fat Girl Rules. She finds her safe space in her swimming pool, where she can stretch herself out like a starfish and get away from her pushy mom. With the support of her dad, therapist, and new neighbour, Catalina, Ellie can cast aside the Fat Girl Rules and starfish in real life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Penguin Putnam Inc

Ellie's journey has been a challenging one, marked by relentless bullying about her weight ever since she donned a whale swimsuit and made a grand entrance at her fifth birthday party. To cope with the pain, she has adopted a set of rules known as the Fat Girl Rules, which include refraining from making waves, avoiding public eating, and moving slowly to avoid jiggling. However, her safe haven has been her swimming pool, where she feels weightless in a society that perpetuates fat-shaming. In the water, Ellie can stretch herself out like a starfish and occupy as much space as she desires. It's also a place where she can escape the constant criticism of her pushy mom, who believes that criticizing Ellie's weight will motivate her to diet.

Fortunately, Ellie has a supportive network of allies in her dad, therapist, and new neighbour, Catalina. Catalina loves Ellie for who she is, unconditionally, and provides a source of comfort and acceptance. With this unwavering support, Ellie is beginning to break free from the constraints of the Fat Girl Rules and embrace her true self. She is learning to unapologetically be her fabulous self, without fear of judgment or criticism.

Ellie's journey is still ongoing, and there will be obstacles along the way. But with the love and support of her family and friends, she is determined to overcome the bullies and live a life filled with confidence, joy, and self-love. She knows that she deserves to be seen and heard for who she truly is, and she is committed to pursuing her dreams and aspirations without letting her weight hold her back.

Weight: 181g
Dimension: 195 x 127 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781984814524