About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their middle-schooler is feeling external pressure to change their physical appearance or is struggling with the shame associated with 'diet culture.' While it is set at a weight-loss camp, the heart of the story is about Sam and Izzy reclaiming their autonomy. They decide to reject the camp's restrictive and often humiliating methods in favor of a path they define for themselves. It is an excellent choice for navigating themes of self-confidence and standing up to authority figures who may not have a child's best interests at heart. Since it was published in 1981, it provides a realistic, if sometimes blunt, look at how society views body image. It ultimately serves as a tool to normalize feelings of frustration and provides a representation of kids finding power in their own choices.
