TL;DR
'Starfish' by Lisa Fipps follows twelve-year-old Ellie as she deals with fat-shaming and learns to embrace her true self, with the help of her swimming pool, supportive allies, and self-acceptance.
What is Starfish about
'Starfish' by Lisa Fipps is a compelling novel-in-verse that explores the life of twelve-year-old Ellie, who has been bullied for her weight since a pool incident on her fifth birthday. The book delves into themes like self-acceptance, social support, and resilience. Ellie lives by the 'Fat Girl Rules' to avoid drawing attention to herself, but finds solace in her swimming pool, where she feels weightless. With the help of her supportive father, therapist, and new friend Catalina, Ellie strives to overcome societal pressures and her mother's harsh criticisms, learning to love herself and stand up against bullying.
Starfish 7 Key Takeaways
Ellie's Birthday Incident
The story begins with a flashback to Ellie's fifth birthday, where she was nicknamed 'Splash' after a pool incident, starting her journey of being bullied for her weight.
Fat Girl Rules
Ellie adopts self-imposed rules to avoid drawing attention to her body, such as 'no making waves' and 'don't move so fast that your body jiggles,' reflecting her struggle with self-acceptance.
Safe Space
Ellie finds refuge in her swimming pool, where she feels weightless and free from societal judgments, and where she can stretch out like a starfish.
Support System
Ellie receives unwavering support from her caring father, her therapist, and her new neighbor, Catalina, who help her challenge the 'Fat Girl Rules' and build self-confidence.
Conflict with Mother
Ellie faces constant criticism from her mother, who believes that pushing Ellie to diet will help her, causing tension and contributing to Ellie's self-esteem issues.
Self-Acceptance
As Ellie learns to embrace her true self, she begins to challenge the 'Fat Girl Rules,' finding the courage to stand up to bullies and her mother's unrealistic expectations.
Resolution
With the support from her allies, Ellie starts to unapologetically be herself, casting aside the 'Fat Girl Rules' and confidently taking up space in her own life.
Top Starfish Quotes
- 'In the water, I can stretch myself out like a starfish and take up all the room I want.'
- 'Fat Girl Rules—like 'no making waves,' 'avoid eating in public,' and 'don't move so fast that your body jiggles.''
Who should read Starfish?
This book is ideal for readers aged 11 and up who are interested in themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and social issues. It offers valuable insights for anyone who has faced bullying or body image issues and serves as an inspiring read for those seeking to embrace their true selves.
Starfish Best Reviews
- 'Starfish is a devastatingly good and thought-provoking story that I would for sure recommend (with discretion).'
- 'Lisa Fipps' debut novel-in-verse is a powerful tale of self-acceptance and the courage to stand up for oneself.'
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Starfish FAQs
What grade level is 'Starfish'?
'Starfish' is recommended for readers aged 11 and up. While the themes are heavy, the content is appropriate for middle school students and above.
What is the main idea of the book 'Starfish'?
The main idea revolves around Ellie's journey towards self-acceptance, supported by themes of bullying, social support, and standing up for oneself.
How old is Ellie in 'Starfish'?
In 'Starfish,' Ellie is a twelve-year-old girl who navigates the challenges of living in a world fixated on her weight, dealing with bullying and self-esteem issues.