Smaller Sister Graphic Novel

Navigating Difficult Topics with Older Kids

Do you have a family member with an eating disorder? Maybe you’d like to introduce the concept of these invisible diseases in a way kids can understand. If you want your kid to understand people with these types of disorders, start by reading Smaller Sister by Maggie Edkins Willis.

Smaller Sister Graphic Novel on Amazon

This book tells the story of Lucy, who has an older sister with an eating disorder. Olivia can’t accept how she looks and struggles with food and body image. In the beginning of the book, Lucy takes Olivia as her role model. But along the way, Lucy learns to like herself the way she is, while adjusting to the changing family dynamics as her sister battles her disease.

This book deals with serious topics like eating disorders in a way that readers can understand. It also addresses big changes, from starting middle school, evolving relationships, and moving schools. Throughout the narrative, Lucy has to face her fears. She learns to find answers to her questions and make new friends, as well as realizing that her own choices matter. Lucy finds her place in her family as she navigates the changing relationship with both her sister and her parents.

My daughter has read this book so many times we’ve lost count. On a scale of one to five, she gives it four and three quarter stars, citing its subject matter and explanation of topics. “There are some books that are better, but it’s really good.”

Get your own copy of this groundbreaking book on the subject of body image, young girls, and changing expectations and empower your kid with information and resources.