Tyranny

Lesley Fairfield (author/illustrator)

Walker Books, Australia: April 2011; 117pp

ISBN: 9781406331134

Genres: graphic novel, realistic fiction

Issues: eating disorders, identity, self-esteem

Anorexia is one of those issues that is generally not discussed in 'polite society'. As a result many children find themselves struggling alone with the demanding voice that convinces them that being thin is the only goal worth achieving.

This graphic novel is the courageous work of Lesley Fairfield, herself a recovered anorexic. Determined to help others who might be experiencing the same severe mental battle and to warn those at risk, Fairfield's work helps readers understand both the seductive and destructive nature of anorexia. At times brutally honest, Tyranny recognizes that eating disorders stem from a range of issues – poor body image, self-esteem problems, relationship difficulties, and the desire to be accepted. It also lays out clearly the damage that can be done to the human body through deliberate starvation, upto and including death. Fairfield's work will help caregivers understand the irrationality of the sufferer's thinking, acknowledging that anorexics often refuse to admit they have a problem and so often reject help when it is offered.

Both sad and hopeful, Tyranny helps readers understand that recovery is a long battle and only possible with support from both a good psychologist and loving friends and family. A very powerful, thought-provoking book that would work well for class study.