Starfish

(This section summarizes Poem 78: “Making a Difference,” Poem 79: “Permanently Altered,” Poem 80: “Swarmed,” Poem 81: “Screwed,” Poem 82: “A Round of Applause,” and Poem 83: “No Ignoring It.”)

Ellie’s English teacher compliments her strength in confronting Enemy Number 3. She says that by using her voice to stand up to bullies, Ellie can empower others to use their own voices too. Mom begins leaving articles about bariatric surgery around the house for Ellie. Despite the high risks the surgery poses for children, Mom still wants Ellie to undergo the procedure. Kortnee unscrews Ellie’s desk at school, causing it to completely collapse around her. Ellie lies trapped on the ground while her classmates swarm her, laughing and making cruel comments about her weight. Although Kortnee confesses to the act and is sent to the principal’s office, the class applauds her as she leaves the room. Ellie’s teacher punishes the rest of the class and advises Ellie to simply ignore the bullying; Ellie is incredulous at this shallow advice, knowing that ignoring the problem will not solve anything.