Lisa Fipps’ debut novel-in-verse “Starfish” tells the story of Ellie, a girl who has faced relentless bullying about her weight since wearing a whale swimsuit at her fifth birthday party. To cope, Ellie follows her self-imposed “Fat Girl Rules” and finds solace in her swimming pool where she can stretch out like a starfish, taking up all the space she wants. At home, her mother’s constant criticism contrasts sharply with the support she receives from her father, therapist, and new neighbor, Catalina.
“Starfish” offers educators a powerful resource for addressing SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through its authentic portrayal of mental health challenges and therapy as a positive tool for growth. Ellie’s journey exemplifies being Principled as she learns to stand up against injustice, and Reflective as she gains insight into her own worth through therapeutic conversations. Teachers can use this accessible verse novel to facilitate discussions about body acceptance, emotional well-being, and the impact of words on mental health. The book’s format also presents excellent opportunities for exploring poetry as creative self-expression. Consider pairing reading with reflective activities where students can process their own experiences with belonging and resilience.
