AWARD RECOGNITION
THERE IS SOMETHING FISHY ABOUT ed is tender, poetic, and incredibly thoughtful. The metaphor of “ed” as a stranger in the mother’s head is powerful yet age-appropriate...a beautiful conversation starter that stays with you long after the last page.
Evelyn Hartwell
What a tender and meaningful story. The language flows like poetry, and the message is wrapped in warmth rather than worry. I love how the focus is not on fixing the mother, but on supporting her. It shows children that love, patience, and listening really matter.
Sophia Bennett
A gentle masterpiece. It teaches empathy without preaching and explains eating disorders without judgment. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist, this book is a powerful conversation starter...
Amelia Hart
This book approaches mental health with remarkable sensitivity. The breakfast-table setting makes the story feel warm and familiar, while the metaphor of “ed” makes the topic accessible. It’s rare to find a children’s book that respects young readers this much.
Ellen Lewis
Beautifully written and deeply meaningful. I love how the author shows that support doesn’t have to be complicated; sometimes it starts with listening and sharing a meal together. This story encourages kindness, patience, and understanding in a way young readers can truly grasp.
Clara Hellen
I didn’t expect a children’s book to move me this deeply. The relationship between the fish family is heartwarming, and the way “ed” is described makes the illness less scary and more understandable...mental health struggles don’t define a person; love and support do.
Hana
5-STAR REVIEWS FROM LITERARY TITAN
THERE IS SOMETHING FISHY ABOUT ed is a tender, rhyming story that swims gently into deep waters. Told from a child’s point of view, it introduces mental health and eating disorders through a whimsical underwater world where a mother fish battles “ed,” a personified eating disorder. With rhymes, bright imagery, and emotion woven into every stanza, the book uses metaphor to help children understand the struggles of a loved one while offering hope, coping strategies, and connection.
*****
THERE IS SOMETHING FISHY ABOUT ed is a gem. It’s not a clinical guide. It doesn’t try to diagnose or treat. For parents, teachers, or therapists looking to talk with kids about eating disorders or mental health, this is a gentle, honest, and creative place to start. I’d recommend it to families going through tough times, educators wanting to open dialogue, or even just anyone who wants to teach empathy through storytelling. It’s thoughtful, warm, and quietly brave.
*****
Right from the beginning, the writing pulls you in with its simple yet evocative language. The author does an incredible job of using poetry to create a rhythm that mirrors the ups and downs of mental illness.
At times, the verses feel light and playful, especially when the siblings count fish, or share inside jokes, but there’s an underlying weight that makes the story feel real.
The metaphor of the ocean, the storm, and the lurking presence of “ed” makes this a powerful and relatable read.
It’s emotional, beautifully written, and, most importantly, filled with hope. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist, this book is a conversation starter that will leave a lasting impact.
*****
This book is a heartfelt, poetic exploration of a family navigating the stormy waters of an eating disorder. Told through the eyes of two young fish siblings, it follows their journey as they learn about their mother’s struggle with “ed”. The story gently unpacks complex emotions, fear, confusion, and love and highlights the importance of communication, support, and coping skills.
The ending takes an unexpected yet imaginative turn when the children transform from fish into humans, symbolizing growth and newfound understanding. It’s a creative touch that reinforces the idea that struggles don’t define a person they evolve, they change, they learn to cope.
*****
THERE IS SOMETHING FISHY ABOUT ed would be a great fit for families wanting to introduce mental health discussions in a way that feels safe and engaging. It’s perfect for kids who might be dealing with similar challenges at home or anyone who wants a deeper understanding of how eating disorders affect not just individuals, but the people who love them.
*****