Louder Than Hunger
Author: John Schu
Louder Than Hunger is a novel in verse that explores the mental health journey of thirteen-year-old Jake, an 8th grader who loves to read poetry, roller-skate, and talk about Broadway musicals with his grandmother. Bullying and loneliness contribute to Jake’s struggle with anorexia, an eating disorder that becomes life-threatening and leads to a stay in a residential treatment facility. There, Jake re-examines his relationships with new friends, family, and the “Voice” in his mind to find hope in his journey toward self-acceptance and health.
Our Young Reviewers Say:
Quade
Louder Than Hunger, by John Shu, is an essential book for young readers. Language choices create a narrative that captures the complexities of dealing with complex mental health issues while remaining appropriate for middle-grade readers. Schu delivers a masterful combination of language and creative characterization, particularly in Jake’s antagonist, the “Voice” in his mind. The representation of the Voice in bold and larger font on certain pages adds to the visual impact and helps the reader dive into Jake’s emotions. The concept of personifying the eating disorder as a separate entity also aids in understanding its development throughout the story. The free verse format, white choice spaces, and descriptive language are compelling and visually engaging.The subject is timely: more than 30% of anxiety and depression conditions that can lead to behavioral changes begin by age 14*, and the stigma of eating disorders (and mental health in general) can prevent kids from getting the help they need. Books like this can change lives and normalize hard conversations. Its ability to address the topic of anorexia with sensitivity and hope makes it an influential piece of children’s literature.
For a deeper read, note that the plot is carefully constructed and punctuated with references to poetry, theater, and other works of literature, creating an internal treasure map of discovery for the curious reader who can gain insight from the referenced material. The inspiring organization of material was authentic, powerful, and a tribute to John Schu’s experience and life’s work – a celebration of the arts and the power of literature to help readers find their voice and story.
From the first page, the Voice in MY head spoke: “Outstanding. Important. Award-worthy and perhaps for a reader in the future, life-saving.”
–Quade, age 16, San Diego, CA
Years as a Youth Reviewer: 6
Nikhil
The free verse and constantly evolving fonts change the already-stirring text into something alive. Addressing such a sensitive subject without any frills, the poem strips away any pretence, focusing directly on the rawness of the experience. It’s a book that strikes a chord in everyone who struggles with self-image and control, bringing light to an issue teens across the country struggle with.
–Nikhil, age 18, Englewood, NJ
Years as a Youth Reviewer: 4
Vimala
Louder Than Hunger is awarded for its honest portrayal of the struggles teens face, especially eating disorders and low self-esteem. Schu uniquely uses font size, capitalization, and bolding to broaden poetry’s horizons for readers and connect them with all the emotions of adolescence, from the joy of listening to music to fears of not fitting in. In a society obsessed with perfection, Louder Than Hunger serves as an important reminder to accept all parts of yourself.
–Vimala, age 18, Bronx, NY
Years as a Youth Reviewer: 3
Young people who are interested in reviewing are invited to do so as we welcome the individual perspective of our age-appropriate readers. If you are interested in being a reviewer, contact youngreviewers@bankstreet.edu
See our Monthly Picks Archive 2012–2018, and our Monthly Picks 2019–present.