Tyranny

Fairfield treats this important subject with intelligence and empathy, and personifying Anna’s horrible self-image in the character of Tyranny is a unique and compelling approach. The simple yet powerful black-and-white drawings do wonders in bringing the book’s message to its readers. Tyranny is so important that both younger and older teens will benefit from reading it. Every public and school library should own at least one copy of this amazing book. ~Andrea Lipinski, New York Public Library, School Library Journal

This is a short book with sharp, clear black-and-white illustrations that are full of movement and emotion. The book definitely succeeds in showing Anna's body image distortion - we frequently see the super-thin Anna looking in the mirror and seeing a much rounder version of herself. Anna's alter ego is menacing - at one point literally resembling a monkey on her back - and the full horror of Anna's illness is relayed through dream sequences and some harrowing scenes. There are extremely poignant moments too - I paused for a long time on a page showing Anna with her fellow-sufferer friend Cynthia, gazing sadly into empty space in a park where carefree children frolicked in leaves just metres away.



This simple, powerful story is presented in a highly accessible way, highlighting important issues for all young women.

~Chicklish

We see her strengths, her weaknesses, her hardest times are laid completely bare and it’s impossible not to feel for her as she tries desperately to claw her life back, after watching everything slip away because of her illness...I imagine Tyranny is perfect for younger readers and teens, while it is entertaining it’s also educational without preaching or judging anybody involved...Tyranny is certainly one of the most unique novels I’ve read in a very long time and it’s one that I’m sure will linger in my mind. ~Writing from the Tub

I loved this book, and I'm so glad it's been published. If every school and college invested in a single copy, there's a chance it could save a life or stop someone ever endangering their life in the first place. Knowing the real effects of eating disorders, and also knowing the help available, could be the answer to problems teenagers may not even know they have. Stark and courageous, Tyranny is a graphic novel to be read by all. I just hope it reaches those who need it most. ~Wondrous Reads

Tyranny gets to the heart of a painful subject with sensitivity. The clear and direct style makes it ideal for younger teens, and I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a responsible and frank introduction to the theme of eating disorders. ~I Was a Teenage Book Geek

Brilliantly and realistically presented, Tyranny is a must-read for anyone looking for a better understanding of eating disorders and for everyone looking for a compelling page-turner that is truly a story of triumph and hope. ~Overflowing Library

A graphic novel about anorexia may sound a bit weird, but this is funny, sad and compelling as well as being really informative ~Bliss