Fifteen-year-old Jennifer has to force her family to admit she needs help for her eating disorder. But when her parents sign her into the Samuel Tuke Center, she knows it’s a terrible mistake. The facility’s locked doors, cynical nurses, and punitive rules are a far cry from the peaceful, supportive environment she’d imagined.
In order to be discharged, Jennifer must make her way through the strict treatment program—as well as harrowing accusations, confusing half-truths, and startling insights. She is forced to examine her relationships, both inside and outside the hospital. She must relearn who to trust, and decide for herself what “healthy” really means.
Punctuated by dark humor, gritty realism, and profound moments of self-discovery, Believarexic is a stereotype-defying exploration of belief and human connection.
★ “Compelling and authentic, this story is impossible to put down." - Booklist (starred review)
“... a powerful story of healing and self-acceptance." - Kirkus “Johnson carefully avoids potential triggers ... by focusing firmly on recovery." - School Library Journal
Awards
Young Adults’ Choices ―International Literacy Association
Keystone to Reading Book Award High School Nominee, Keystone State Reading Association
Kansas State Reading Circle Recommended Reading List (Senior High), Kansas National Education Association
Eliot Rosewater High School Book Award Nominee, Association for Indiana Media Educators / Indiana Library Federation
Grand Canyon Reader Award Nominee (Teen Category), Arizona Library Association
