‘Louder Than Hunger’ by John Schu

This young adult verse novel is a fictionalized account of the author’s own experience with an eating disorder. It is at once, hard hitting and hope filled.

Jake suffers from anorexia nervosa and constantly struggles with the ruling, manipulative ‘voice in his head’. Out of concern for not only his physical health, but is whole well-being, he is sent to Whispering Pines in the hope of silencing this dominating force and getting his life back. Though Jake’s journey here often gives rise to confusion, panic, fear, and anger, he also finds light, support, friendship, and growing self-belief. John Schu’s prudent choice in rendering this highly emotional, tender, and confronting story through the verse novel form was both inspiring and requisite. Each word impacts, some sing, some scream, and all challenge. Jake becomes known to the reader, really known as the immediacy of this medium resonates with authenticity, the gravity of Jake’s situation and the assurance of hope and courage.

Schu’s lyrical style informs and imparts both the depth of Jake’s torment and jubilation of hope.

This book is for all of us as we traverse our own journeys, and write our own stories.

‘Louder Than Hunger’ is in the Youth – Relationships collection. Find it on the Library catalogue here.

Kay

Content Development Librarian: Children’s and Young Adult