Customer Reviews

Til The Fat Girl Sings: From an Overweight Nobody to a Broadway Somebody-A Memoir

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Sharon Wheatley's memoir is more than just an account of conquering childhood obesity, it's also a funny and moving coming-of-age story about creating the life you dream of in the face of adversity. Although we already know the ending--that Sharon found a happy life as a wife and mother and a successful career as a Broadway actress--this compulsively readable book keeps you rooting for her, wondering if she'll be able to beat the odds. This is not just a book aimed at young women, it is a story with universal appeal, and Sharon's natural gift as a writer draws you in like a confidante to her story.

Beautiful, sensitive memoir that deals with universal issues of growing up. Sharon doesn't cast blame for her weight but certainly expresses how it affected her growing up and still affects her as an adult. It's about forgiving yourself and others for things you did and that happened to you in the past. I was hesitant to read the book because of the mother influence in her story. I didn't want to have to beat myself up for how I raised my girls in relation to body concept and self-esteem but it didn't make me feel sad or regretful. It is a very quick read. I read it today! A deeply personal, intimate look at a lovely, talented person who has worked very hard to achieve her dream and overcome many personal issues. It's a beautiful love story too. A must read for anyone who was ever a child, with or without weight issues - mother, adult, singer, actor,... human being. Can you tell, I loved it!

It's been my great privilege to hear Sharon sing and see her perform, and believe me, I was shocked to learn she'd struggled with her weight. She has such an exotic and unusual beauty that you just can't take your eyes off her, and when she sings, well, her voice is incredible. It's wonderful to hear a major Broadway talent admit she's had some of the same problems the rest of us struggle with daily.

This is the story of what it's like to grow up seriously obese. Sharon Wheatley's story is sometimes funny and sometimes pitiful. It's like Judy Blume's Blubber come to life. Imagine being called compared to a heifer in class and in front of a teacher who decides to do nothing about it. Imagine having a sales clerk who should at least try to be nice in order to sell you more clothes refer to you as gross within earshot of you. Sharon dealt with all this by becoming a jolly good sport and by throwing herself into her music. Later she looses weight and makes it to New York and Broadway. This is a pretty good memoir. It sympathizes with fat teens but doesn't tell them that it's okay to just make the pain go away by indulging in a food binge.

Sharon's account of growing up and dreaming of a career on Broadway coupled with the challenges of childhood weight issues is not only compelling but heartwarming and honest.

One of the best reads in a very long time. Everyone will be able to relate to her touching story.

Any person,young or old who has ever struggled with weight issues will adore this book. Any person who ever had a dream will adore this book. It's a funny, moving, and honest portrait of a an overweight actress. I couldn'tput it down. It takes you back to your teenage years and paints a vivid portrait. At times I cringed. Oh the hateful lunchroom.... For teenagers and adults. I applaud the author.

I loved this story! It opened my eyes to a problem that I really wasn't tuned in to. An important story to tell. Not only that but I think sometimes we as individuals feel so alone, like we are the only people with problems, Sharon's story of overcoming adversity is a REAL inspiriation.

I am a tall thin straight Male who thought that I might not really understand where Sharon Wheatley is coming from. Her story is so great that you don't have to be over weight to understand where she is coming from. This book is funny, thoughtful and true. It is a worthy read and it is great for anyone who has ever had the need to feel wanted. A GREAT READ AND A GREAT BUY!

It is Amazing what has happened in the first part of her Songbird Sharon's life.
Her memoir is a testimony about whatever life throws at you , you can overcome it. I think we can all identify with mean kids, horrific embarrassing moments, and blaming yourself for things you don't understand.

It is one of the sweetest, saddest, and most inspiring books I would recommend. Hooray for the Songbird aas we look forward to Volume 2 and all its successes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I would have picked a different title though- I have known you 35 years, and you were never a "nobody". And how could you sing the Sound of Music to Chopin, Mozart, et., al.???

You did not mention Patrick- the meanest dog in Cincinnati???!!!

I read TIL THE FAT GIRL SINGS from cover to cover in one sitting - completely enthralled. This isn't just a book about overcoming weight issues. The reoccuring question is - Is this the person I want to be? Miss Wheatley takes you on a journey that is poignant and keeps you turning the pages. This book is an intimate conversation with a hilarious, loveable and strong woman who has alot of wisdom to share. I've already reccommended it to friends male and female, from ages 19-50, within and out of the theater business. You shouldn't pass this one up!