I first read this book as a kid. I was enduring middle school, barely. Most of my time was spent in the library, sometimes reading an entire book in a day. There was no friend group that seemed to really want me around so I tried to make myself scarce. To take up the least amount of space possible. I had a bigger body than most of the students and I tried to hide that with several layers of clothing, and a hoodie—even in the +100 degree weather. Already kids were calling me plump, I remember one boy told me I would be pretty if I wasn’t fat.

This book felt like someone could read my mind. The Fat Girl Code of Conduct, the students and family making hurtful comments, wanting to be invisible, and desperately trying to find a way out of gym class.

I’m currently reading a lot of middle grade books, it brings me joy and feels healing. It’s also nice to return to the books that sparked my love of reading. Needless to say, finding this book again was beyond exciting.

Reading this book as an adult hit so much harder. I felt like it broke my heart every other sentence. It saddens me that I related so much to Virginia’s story as a kid and that I can still relate to her now, as a 32 year old woman.

Virginia’s evolution is so fun and empowering to experience. It certainly inspires me to continue my path towards true self love. Anyway, 5 stars forever.