Hunger for Life

“Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses, not lifestyle choices.” – Demi Lovato

Gripping, heartbreaking and raw, Hunger for Life is the story of James, a young man and how he and his life are affected by his sister’s eating disorder. Not only is James affected by her illness, but his parents are as well.

James was so happy when Emma was born. He loves his sister deeply and they have a close bond. He is rocked to the core when his sister suffers from an illness which has plagued her for so long. James feels guilty moving on with his life while his sister is struggling. His entire family is struggling, each in their own way.

James has friends and eventually meets Hannah, a young woman who proves to him that he can be both happy and sad at the same time.

“Eating disorders are among the deadliest mental illnesses, second only to opioid overdose.” – ANAD (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders)

This book is a poignant look at how eating disorders can affect not only the individual but their loved ones as well. The feeling of helplessness that loved ones feel watching as someone they love struggles and fades in front of them. They I-could-have-done something and I-should-have-done something that runs through the minds of loved ones. How painful and gut wrenching it is fear for their lives and wellbeing.

“About 26% of people with eating disorders attempt suicide.” -ANAD (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders)

I also appreciated how he showed Emma’s feelings and thoughts as well. Her thoughts about herself, her body, and her family. This is such a serious illness and the author, Andy Marr, handled the subject with care. I appreciated how he showed the love, the frustration, the anxiety, the anger, the hope, and myriad of feelings that James experienced in this book.

I found this well written book to be raw, evoking emotion and gripping. It was hard not to feel for James, Emma, and their parents. James is at an age where he should be embracing his future, finding his way, and moving forward. Like his mother I wanted to tell him to go live and be happy but understood how he had difficulty doing so.

10,200 deaths each year are the direct result of an eating disorder—that’s one death every 52 minutes. -ANAD (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders)

This book is both heartbreaking but hopeful. James is off to see that world and his sister finally feels that she is being listened to and finally has a say in her care. I included some statistics in my review to show the seriousness of this illness. Mental Health is not talked about enough. It is still a taboo subject for some. It is a shame and I feel we need to be discussing it openly and providing a safe place for people to share and get support.

I highly recommend this book.

Thank to you Andy Marr for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions are my own.