This book took my breath away. It is a heartbreaking but inspiring novel in verse. It was a 2025 Schneider Family Book Award Honor, and I think it is a great read that leads to better understanding and compassion for kids who are having mental health struggles. I will read it with my children and use it as a jumping off point for important conversations about depression, anorexia, self-esteem, and the power of connection.
OVERVIEW: In the first few pages, we learn so much about Jake. His stomach growls, he is trying to burn as many calories as possible, the Voice in his head tells him he’s repulsive, and he knows Emily Dickinson’s “I’m Nobody! Who are you?” poem by heart.
I’m Nobody! Who are you?
Are you – Nobody – too?
This is Jake’s mantra that he repeats throughout the course of the novel, and it is heart wrenching. Readers are taken on a journey with Jake as he spends almost two years in both in-patient and out-patient treatment for his anorexia and depression. It is an emotional rollercoaster – there are losses and there are relapses – but there are also connections formed, passions discovered, and healing.
The novel tackles hard topics – mental health, eating disorders, bullying – but does so in a way that is appropriate for middle grade readers.
AGE RECOMMENDATION: I recommend this for readers ranging from 5th grade to 8th grade, or ages 10 to 14.
FAVORITE LINE: “It feels like every artist understands me…Their voices help me imagine a better life, a brighter life, a healthier life.”
THEMES: love, connection, resilience, self-esteem, the power of art
BONUS INFO:
- Verse – the novel is written in verse, with the words and passages perfectly curated. It is powerful and also visually interesting.
- Based on the author’s experience– the story is fictional, but based on personal experiences of the author.
Have you read Louder Than Hunger? What are your thoughts on it?
Birdie's Bookshelf 