Light Enough to Float

A parent would reach for this book when they notice their teenager struggling with a distorted body image, disordered eating patterns, or the crushing weight of perfectionism. It is a vital resource for families navigating the delicate transition into residential treatment or intensive therapy, providing a bridge of understanding for a topic that is often shrouded in secrecy and shame. The story follows Evie, a teenage girl admitted to an eating disorder treatment facility, as she processes her relationship with food, her body, and her identity through the lens of poetry. Written in evocative verse, the book explores themes of resilience, the complexity of recovery, and the slow process of reclaiming one's self-worth. It is deeply appropriate for ages 13 and up, offering a realistic rather than romanticized view of illness. Parents might choose this book to validate their child's internal struggle, open a safe channel for difficult conversations, and remind their teen that while the journey is heavy, they are not alone in their fight for health.