Schu, John. Louder Than Hunger. Candlewick Press, 2024.  978-1-536-22909-7. $16.97. 528 p. Grades 5-9.

John Schu tells the fictional story of Jake, a middle school student who is very self-conscious of his appearance. He tries to control his feelings about his body by controlling his eating. But Jake spirals and continues to force himself not to eat, until he becomes critically malnourished. Schu shows readers Jake’s experience in battling anorexia nervosa, OCD, anxiety, clinical depression,  and being admitted to residential treatment as well as out-patient treatment. This is an authentic novel about not only mental illness and the battles that those with them face, but the hope and power that those who push through the darkness experience.

THOUGHTS: This book belongs in every single middle school, high school, and public library. It is an authentic look at anorexia nervosa, anxiety, depression and OCD and will surely help many teens feel seen. While this book discusses some tough topics, it is written in such a heartfelt and genuine way that teens will undoubtedly enjoy it.

Realistic Fiction