3.32
"Huge," a young adult novel by Sasha Paley, explores the complex and often painful world of a teenage girl navigating the challenges of friendship, body image, and self-discovery. The story centers around Wilhemina "Will" Porter, a 17-year-old girl who has always been on the larger side. After a humiliating experience at her school's talent show, Will decides to take control of her life and join a weight loss camp. There, she meets and befriends other girls who are also struggling with their weight and self-esteem. Throughout the novel, Will grapples with the societal pressures to be thin and the impact it has on her relationships with her friends, family, and romantic interests. Paley does an excellent job of portraying the complexity of Will's emotions and the internal struggles she faces as she tries to reconcile her desire to be thin with her love for food and her fear of losing herself in the process. One of the strengths of "Huge" is its realistic and relatable portrayal of the challenges that many teenage girls face when it comes to body image and self-esteem. Paley doesn't shy away from the difficult topics, such as disordered eating and the impact of societal beauty standards on young women. At the same time, she manages to infuse the story with humor and heart, making it a compelling and enjoyable read. Overall, "Huge" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with their body image or self-worth. It's a must-read for anyone looking for a nuanced and authentic portrayal of the complexities of growing up as a young woman in today's society...
Sue Monk Kidd
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Speak
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