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Why won't Kim eat? ISBN: 9781842341094
Amos, Janine
Published by Cherrytree (Bodymatters series), 2002
One of a series aimed at young teenagers. The facts are laid out in short sentences and basic vocabulary, and each book has a storyline. This one begins with Kim worrying about her maths homework and her sister's wedding. She is a high achiever, anxious about small things. She decides on a diet to slim for the wedding, and for awhile all goes well. But then she finds she doesn't want to stop losing weight, and she resorts to lies and subterfuge. She becomes tired and irritable and obsessive about weighing herself. Luckily, her mum finally twigs to what is happening and takes her to the doctor. A therapist is able to help, and Kim's anorexia begins to abate. The series as a whole is marred by psychedelic colour-enhanced photos that turn faces blue, green and splotchy and by some rather messy over-printing of text. A pity, because the information and accompanying story are useful and quite powerful. Included are a glossary and a list of helpful organizations.
Age: 11+