Thank you Netgalley and Holiday House for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Rhonda DeChambeau’s “Top Heavy” is a poignant and beautifully written novel-in-verse that delves into the life of Esme, a 15-year-old dancer navigating the challenges of body image, friendship, and self-acceptance. Written with lyrical verse, the book captures Esme’s struggles and triumphs with a sensitivity and authenticity that resonates deeply. This book will be very relatable to younger YA readers. However, as the summary of the book notes, there is an SA scene around 80% of the way through the book where an adult man (a stranger) grabs Esme’s breast. This scene is handled delicately and Esme is able to persevere through the support of her family and friends, but this scene may be triggering for some readers.

One of the standout aspects of this novel is the creative use of the poetry, particularly in the dance scenes. DeChambeau’s willingness to experiment with the space on the page mirrors Esme’s movements, making you feel the rhythm and grace of her passion for dance. Esme’s journey is relatable to all readers, especially those grappling with issues like sports pressures, evolving friendships, and the sting of micro-aggressive comments about body image.

The depiction of Esme’s friendship with Mia is especially touching. Their bond is layered and realistic, capturing the bittersweet moments of growing apart as priorities shift during adolescence. This exploration of friendship pains is complemented by the broader theme of support—Esme’s relationships with her family, especially her well-meaning but occasionally distant grandmother, emphasize the importance of having a support system even when they don’t fully understand your struggles.

The book also tackles societal judgments about Esme’s body type with honesty and nuance. The commentary on the objectification of girls and women by both peers and adults is eye-opening and thought-provoking, adding depth to Esme’s story. Adding warmth to the story is a gentle and heartfelt romance between Esme and Todd, which feels realistic and sweet without overshadowing her personal growth. Watching Esme grow in confidence, embrace her body, and redefine her self-worth is one of the book’s most rewarding arcs.

Ultimately, “Top Heavy” is a story of hope, love, and self-acceptance. Esme’s journey to self-actualization is inspiring, and her closing reflections are both moving and empowering. This book is a tender, beautifully crafted ode to resilience, perfect for younger YA readers navigating their own paths of growth. It’s a book that lingers in your heart long after the final page.