From School Library Journal
Gr 6 Up--Using large type, full-color photos, and clear language, these titles explore issues related to weight and eating habits. Each one includes three italicized "case studies" of teenagers trying to come to terms with food and their bodies, as well as basic information about dieting, self-esteem, eating disorders, and nutrition. Starving to Win deals with the pressure placed on athletes to gain or lose weight, as well as the perils of drugs and crash diets. Body Blues addresses the connection between weight and depression. The overall message of both books is that health is more important than weight, and that teenagers should learn to accept their bodies rather than trying to look like the media ideal. Both titles contain lists of resources that include relevant Web sites. However, because few statistics are provided and sources are not cited, these books will not be very useful for school reports. For teens struggling with food and body image, they provide an upbeat message and point the way toward further help.
Miranda Doyle, Notre Dame High School, Belmont, CA
Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
