Book details
Because of Anya
Description
Ten-year-old girls don't wear wigs. So why is Anya wearing one? That's what Keely wants to know. But when Anya's wig falls off in front of the whole class, Keely realizes what she really wants is to help Anya, even though she's not sure how--and even though it means she'll have to do something she's afraid of: stand up to her friends. As for Anya, she just wants her hair to grow back, but no one can tell her whether it ever will. How can she learn to accept her disease when she can't even look in the mirror?
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
128 pages
Why to read
- Empathy and Understanding: 'Because of Anya' delves into the struggles of a young girl dealing with alopecia, an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss. Reading this book can foster empathy and understanding in readers as they experience the emotional journey of the protagonist, Anya.
- Awareness of Alopecia: The book raises awareness about alopecia, a condition that is not widely understood or represented in children's literature. It provides insight into the challenges faced by those who have the condition and can help readers learn about diversity and the importance of acceptance.
- Engaging Storytelling: Margaret Peterson Haddix is known for her compelling storytelling, and 'Because of Anya' is no exception. The book offers an engaging narrative that keeps readers invested in the characters and their outcomes, making it a captivating read.
- Themes of Friendship and Courage: The story explores themes of friendship, courage, and the importance of standing up for others. It highlights how friends can support each other through difficult times and the strength it takes to be true to oneself, which are valuable lessons for readers of all ages.