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50 pages 1 hour read

Starfish

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Middle Grade | Published in 2021

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Book Brief

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Lisa Fipps

Starfish

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Middle Grade | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

Indiana • Contemporary

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

HL630L

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Super Short Summary

Starfish by Lisa Fipps is a 2021 middle-grade realistic novel-in-verse that centers on 12-year-old Ellie Montgomery-Hofstein, who grapples with being bullied for her weight by classmates and her family. Through her friendship with Catalina and the support of her therapist Dr. Wood, Ellie learns self-acceptance and how to assert her worth. The story highlights themes of resilience, bullying, and personal growth. Starfish discusses emotional and food-related abuse as well as fat-shaming. It includes an instance of racism.

Emotional

Melancholic

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.6

32,312 ratings

90%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Starfish by Lisa Fipps is widely praised for its authentic portrayal of a young girl's struggle with body image and bullying. Reviewers commend its engaging verse format and emotional depth. However, some note that the plot can be predictable. Overall, the book is celebrated for its impactful message and relatable protagonist, making it a significant read for middle-grade audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Starfish?

Starfish by Lisa Fipps appeals to middle-grade readers who appreciate heartfelt, realistic fiction addressing body positivity and self-acceptance. Fans of R.J. Palacio's Wonder and Holly Goldberg Sloan's Counting by 7s will enjoy Fipps's poignant exploration of self-worth and resilience in a relatable, empathetic voice.

4.6

32,312 ratings

90%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Ellie Montgomery-Hofstein

A twelve-year-old storyteller and poet who navigates challenging family dynamics and bullying at school, using her words as a form of self-expression and emotional processing.

A musician and a key friend to Ellie who provides unwavering support and acceptance, helping Ellie feel empowered through their shared bond over music and words.

Ellie’s psychiatrist father who emphasizes the importance of emotional well-being and supports Ellie’s journey toward self-acceptance.

Ellie’s journalist mother who frequently criticizes Ellie’s weight, contributing to her negative self-image.

Ellie’s older brother, known for treating her with disdain and reinforcing her feelings of isolation.

Ellie’s older sister who initially remains passive in the face of Ellie’s struggles but later makes efforts to be supportive.

Ellie’s primary bullies at school who frequently torment her and play significant roles in perpetuating her challenges with self-image.

An unnamed school bully who insults Ellie but helps highlight different motivations and insecurities behind bullying behavior.

Ellie’s therapist who provides a safe space for Ellie to explore her feelings and aids her in developing self-acceptance.

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

Indiana • Contemporary

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

HL630L

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