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304
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2009
YA
14-18 years
730L
Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson follows Lia Overbrook, a high school senior grappling with anorexia, depression, and grief over her friend Cassie's death. As Lia's mental health deteriorates, she hallucinates Cassie's ghost and struggles with guilt for missing Cassie's final calls. After a near-fatal episode, Lia ultimately seeks help and begins to find the will to live and recover. This book contains topics related to eating disorders, self-harm, and suicide.
Dark
Unnerving
Melancholic
Challenging
Emotional
125,327 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Laurie Halse Anderson's Wintergirls receives praise for its powerful exploration of eating disorders and mental health, portraying Lia’s struggles with haunting realism. Critics commend its lyrical prose and emotional depth. However, some readers find the narrative’s intense themes challenging and the protagonist’s voice occasionally repetitive. Overall, it's a compelling, albeit intense, read.
Readers who would enjoy Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson are typically teens and young adults drawn to deeply emotional and psychological narratives. Fans of Speak, also by Anderson, or Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher will appreciate the raw, honest exploration of mental health, eating disorders, and the road to recovery.
125,327 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Cassie Parrish
Lia's former best friend, Cassie, battled bulimia and was a prominent member of the school soccer team and drama club, influencing Lia with her daring and imaginative personality.
David Overbrook
Lia's father, a history professor renowned for his expertise on the American Revolution, who struggles to connect with Lia and understand her needs.
Dr. Chloe Marrigan
Lia's mother, a cardiologist with a demanding job, who has a strained relationship with Lia due to her high expectations and controlling approach to Lia's recovery.
Jennifer
Lia's stepmother, who tries to support Lia's recovery while balancing her responsibilities to her biological daughter, Emma.
Emma
Jennifer's young daughter and Lia's stepsister, who shares peaceful and affectionate interactions with Lia amidst family tensions.
Elijah
A young man Lia meets at the motel where Cassie died, who offers Lia a perspective on Cassie's death that she does not find elsewhere in her life.
Dr. Parker
Lia's therapist, who has been working with her since her release from New Seasons, encouraging Lia to confront her mental health struggles.
304
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2009
YA
14-18 years
730L
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