A Trick of the Light by Lois Metzger

Mike Welles had everything under control. But that was before. Now things are rough at home, and they’re getting confusing at school. He’s losing his sense of direction, and he feels like he’s a mess.

Then there’s a voice in his head. A friend, who’s trying to help him get control again. More than that—the voice can guide him to become faster and stronger than he was before, to rid his life of everything that’s holding him back. To figure out who he is again. If only Mike will listen.

Eating disorders are one of society's prevalent issues.  Anorexia and Bulimia aren't exactly household words, but if you stop anyone on the street, they'll know what you're talking about.  The interesting perspective for this book is that we're dealing with a teenage boy, coping to get control of his life, rather than a teenage girl who wants to be skinny and beautiful.  Mike is a fascinating kid and Metzger has created a wonderful way for us to be able to experience exactly what he does.  The story is told from the point of view of Anorexia.  This unique perspective allows us to see a part of Mike that other's can't see, his innermost thoughts and desires and fears.

What I like best about this book is that it explains eating disorders and signs to watch for without laying down a bunch of boring facts.  It will make you more aware of those around you and the possibility of them needing help.  It's an intriguing story that also has an important message.

On a personal note, this book was not good for me.  Having fought and won my own battle with Anorexia years ago, it made me miss it.  It reminded me how good it felt to have that gnawing pit of hunger in your gut and ignore it.  It reminded me how good it felt to exercise until you physically can't push your body anymore.  Unhealthy and dangerous, yes.  Having put my issues to bed years ago, it surprised me to find that I could remember exactly what it felt like.  

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  Shawn