Wintergirls

Overview

Wintergirls is a novel by Laurie Halse Anderson, published in 2009. The book is a young adult fiction that deals with the sensitive topics of eating disorders, mental health, and the struggles of adolescence. It follows the story of Lia Overbrook, a high school student grappling with anorexia nervosa and the death of her best friend, Cassie.

Cover of Wintergirls

Plot Summary

The novel begins with the news of Cassie's death, which deeply affects Lia. Cassie and Lia had been best friends, but their relationship was strained due to their competitive nature regarding their eating disorders. Lia feels guilt and responsibility for Cassie's death, as Cassie had tried to call her the night she died.

Lia's struggle with anorexia is depicted through her internal monologue and interactions with her family. Her parents are divorced, and she lives with her father, stepmother, and stepsister. Lia's mother is a doctor who is often absent, adding to Lia's feelings of isolation.

Throughout the novel, Lia battles with her self-image, the pressure to be "the skinniest girl," and the haunting presence of Cassie's ghost. The story explores Lia's journey towards self-acceptance and recovery.

Themes

Wintergirls addresses several important themes:

• Eating disorders: The novel provides an in-depth look at the psychological and physical effects of anorexia nervosa.
• Mental health: It explores the impact of mental illness on individuals and their families.
• Friendship and guilt: Lia's relationship with Cassie highlights the complexities of friendship and the burden of guilt.
• Family dynamics: The book examines how family relationships can influence a person's mental health.

Characters

• Lia Overbrook: The protagonist, a high school student struggling with anorexia.
• Cassie Parrish: Lia's best friend, whose death is central to the plot.
• Dr. Chloe Overbrook: Lia's mother, a busy doctor.
• David Overbrook: Lia's father, who is remarried.
• Jennifer: Lia's stepmother, who tries to support her.
• Emma: Lia's younger stepsister, who looks up to her.

Reception

Wintergirls received critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of eating disorders and mental health issues. It was praised for its lyrical writing style and the depth of its characters. The novel has been used in educational settings to discuss the challenges of adolescence and the importance of mental health awareness.

Related pages

• Laurie Halse Anderson
• Anorexia nervosa
• Young adult fiction
• Mental health in literature