Our Thoughts

This book won a Michael L Printz Honor Book Award. It is also a nominee for the Volunteer State Book Award so it is one that will be on the shelves front-and-center in schools and public libraries. It is written in verse in the voice of almost 12-year-old Ellie who is very overweight and constantly bullied at school and, unfortunately, at home by her siblings and mother (who is said to be a Christian). Her dad (who is Jewish) is her ally. Taking careful consideration of the concerns listed above, this is one to prayerfully consider for children who are mature enough. It should almost certainly only be considered in cases where a Christian parent is willing to be involved along the way. We are given the opportunity to view life through Ellie’s eyes and examine the way we view others, particularly those who are overweight. By walking in her shoes, we develop compassion and empathy and hopefully examine our own hearts for prejudice toward others. “Stereotypes stink. They give people an excuse to hate people who are different instead of taking the time to know them… Does everybody make somebody feel like a nobody?” Our society has put a huge emphasis on the fact that it is wrong to mistreat someone because of the color of their skin or because of a disability, but is often much more accepting of “fat phobia” or being “grossed out by overweight people”. This leads to many great talking points for Christian parents with their children: We are all made in God’s image. We all have value. We are called to be kind. What is the impact of Ellie not having genuine Christians in this story who can act as her advocates? What would it look like for a loving Christian mother or close friend to address something like this in place of Ellie’s mom’s approach to put her on diets, monitor her food, refuse to buy her new clothes, check her garbage can, schedule her to see a surgeon? What would it look like to invite Jesus into this situation?