Starfish Audiobook By Lisa Fipps cover art

Starfish

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Starfish

By: Lisa Fipps
Narrated by: Jenna Lamia
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A PRINTZ HONOR BOOK • Ellie is tired of being fat-shamed and does something about it in this poignant novel-in-verse.

“In her debut novel, Starfish, Lisa Fipps confronts diet culture and fat phobia head-on. . . . The book reads as if Ellie herself is writing these poems, which are accessible and engaging.”—The New York Times Book Review

Ever since Ellie wore a whale swimsuit and made a big splash at her fifth birthday party, she's been bullied about her weight. To cope, she tries to live by the Fat Girl Rules—like "no making waves," "avoid eating in public," and "don't move so fast that your body jiggles." And she's found her safe space—her swimming pool—where she feels weightless in a fat-obsessed world. In the water, she can stretch herself out like a starfish and take up all the room she wants. It's also where she can get away from her pushy mom, who thinks criticizing Ellie's weight will motivate her to diet. Fortunately, Ellie has allies in her dad, her therapist, and her new neighbor, Catalina, who loves Ellie for who she is. With this support buoying her, Ellie might finally be able to cast aside the Fat Girl Rules and starfish in real life--by unapologetically being her own fabulous self. Body Positivity Growing Up & Facts of Life Social & Life Skills Literature & Fiction Heartfelt Growing Up Inspiring Fiction Funny Poetry & Nursery Rhymes

Featured Article: 12 Outstanding Audiobooks for Tweens


It can be incredibly difficult to find engaging stories that are thematically mature enough to challenge growing minds without veering over the edge into inappropriately adult content. Thankfully, there are many talented authors who achieve this balance, and we’ve rounded up some of the best examples of their work. Our list of 12 outstanding audiobooks for tweens is sure to offer something that's just right for your young listener.

Featured Article 12 Outstanding Audiobooks for Tweens
Beautifully Written Story • Relatable Characters • Award-worthy Performance • Emotional Impact • Inspiring Message

Highly rated for:

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The most inspiring story ever really good thank you love it always others should read

Inspiring 

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Absolutely loved everything about this book. I listened to it after I found out my 60 year old librarian mother and my 13 year old daughter were reading it (coincidentally) at the same time. They couldn’t have an accidental book club without me! It was such an easy and enjoyable listen. Ellie is so lovable and experiencing her growth from beginning to end was transformative for me. I was really cheering her on! I also love how it challenged the reader to consider how we treat others. Our differences don’t make us any less human. And human Ellie is a remarkable being! 🥰

The reader’s voice was not exactly what I would have imagined Elli’s voice to be for a girl her age. (Hence the 4-stars for performance.) but it wouldn’t prevent me from listening again and again!

Lovely

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I'm ready for the sequel! So sincere, so heartbreaking, so redeeming. Elle is a heroine for every young adult, regardless of shape and size.

The authenticity of the characters in dialogue and emotions for their age.

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i loved it even tho it was a school project
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I want to give this book to every child in 5th grade. I plan on sharing my appreciation for it with everyone in my school and community. It is beautifully written and I loved listening to Starfish on audible. I saw myself in this book often and it was incredibly poignant. I am grateful for books because we can use them as mirrors. A gift for all readers!

Books As Mirrors

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