Karen Carpenter. Justine Bateman. Susan Dey. Mary-Kate Olsen. Nicole Richie. There are always new names in the celebrity news telling about girls and women battling with eating disorders. As a person who LOVES to eat - and loves to cook for others - it has been hard for me to understand the need to do without food. In fact, I've lacked the self control to even diet effectively. Wintergirls, by Laurie Halse Anderson (author of Speak), really draws the reader into the mind of a girl, Lia, suffering from anorexia. Her best friend Cassie was bulimic, and until Lia was put into a treatment center over a year ago, they shared their problems with each other. After Lia came back, Cassie had not wanted to be her friend any more. Now Cassie has died, alone in a motel -- and the night she died, she tried 33 times to call Lia. But Lia wouldn't answer her phone. And now she's dealing with the guilt and self-hatred in the usual way - by refusing to eat. Punishing herself, and proving how strong she can be. Her mental and physical deterioration are masterfully described - and you won't be able to read this book without truly understanding anorexia. It isn't a diet plan. Or a means to becoming a famous model and actress.For the descriptive language, the well-developed characters, the style (loved the cross-outs which were Lia's true thoughts), and the education, I give this book 3 out of 4 stars.
3 comments:
I'm starting this book tonight. I've never read anything by Laurie Halse Anderson, although *Speak* is definitely on my to-read list. I will be posting my reactions soon! I also don't have a lot of understanding for this disorder, although I do have a good friend who was anorexic as a teenager. Maybe I should recommend that she read it and let me know what she thinks.
The author mentioned in her epilogue that she ran it past several girls who suffered from the disorder(s), as well as social workers and psychologists who worked with the girls. That offered a level of authenticity that I really appreciated. But I, too, would love to hear from RB students and others who have struggled with these diseases about how close Ms. Anderson got to the truth.
I am really interested in reading this book now.
Anorexia, bullimia, any kind of eating disorder or body dysmorphic disorder affects more people than it should. It's very sad. But when someone thinks irrational thoughts constantly, it is hard to avoid. I believe even if that person with a disorder is to get treatment, it may only be temporary, as those thoughts are still hovering around within the borders of his/her mind.
Nontheless, this read looks good. If AP Lit and Shakespeare ever gives me a break, I may try to read it. I feel I can probably relate to the storyline and topic.
Thanks for putting it up, both Mrs. Frtiz and Mrs. Duell.
Post a Comment