Second Star to the Right
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1989
158
Novel • Fiction
New York, America • 1980s
1989
Middle grade
12-18 years
590L
Second Star to the Right by Deborah Hautzig follows fourteen-year-old Leslie Hiller who, after a bout of stomach flu, develops anorexia nervosa and struggles to recover amidst the concerns of her family and friends. Her perfectionist nature and desire to fit a certain image drive her deeper into the disorder, until professional help offers a glimmer of hope for her recovery. The book addresses eating disorders and their impact on mental and physical health.
Melancholic
Challenging
Emotional
Contemplative
Inspirational
2,371 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Second Star to the Right by Deborah Hautzig is lauded for its sensitive portrayal of anorexia and its impact on families. Readers appreciate the authentic voice of the protagonist, but some critique the narrative for a slow pace and lack of resolution. Despite this, the book is often recommended for its realistic depiction and emotional depth.
A reader who would enjoy Second Star to the Right by Deborah Hautzig is typically a young adult or adult interested in emotional, character-driven narratives. Fans of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath or Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, which explore themes of mental health and personal struggle, may find this book particularly compelling.
2,371 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
158
Novel • Fiction
New York, America • 1980s
1989
Middle grade
12-18 years
590L
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