Mirror Mirror

A parent might reach for this book when their child begins expressing dissatisfaction with their physical appearance or comparing themselves to images in media. While the story features the familiar characters from the Lizzie McGuire television series, it centers on a serious and common middle school struggle: the sudden onset of body dysmorphia and the pressure to meet unrealistic beauty standards. When Miranda becomes convinced she is overweight after seeing a photo, her friends must navigate how to support her through a dangerous spiral of self-doubt and restrictive eating. It is an accessible entry point for discussing self-esteem, the distortion of camera lenses, and the importance of healthy body image. The tone remains grounded and age-appropriate for readers aged 8 to 12, offering a relatable scenario where friendship serves as the primary support system during emotional turmoil.