Book Review: 45 Pounds (more or less)

Here are the numbers of Ann Galardi’s life:

She is 16.
And a size 17.
Her perfect mother is a size 6.
Her Aunt Jackie is getting married in 10 weeks, and wants Ann to be her bridesmaid.
So Ann makes up her mind: Time to lose 45 pounds (more or less) in 2 1/2 months.

Welcome to the world of infomercial diet plans, wedding dance lessons, embarrassing run-ins with the cutest guy Ann’s ever seen—-and some surprises about her NOT-so-perfect mother.

And there’s one more thing. It’s all about feeling comfortable in your own skin-—no matter how you add it up!

I found the summary of this book to be quite interesting and this is what compelled me to read it. Well, that and the fact that it had a number in the title – perfect to cross off my 2015 Reading Challenge list.

45 Pounds (More or Less) by K. A. Barson is a memorable book to me even though it covers some themes that are typical of young adult books. It was a good, easy and relaxing read that was sprinkled with humour, a little romance and lots of life lessons. The book allowed me to examine things differently as it relates to body weight and acceptance, not just from the point of view of someone who is overweight but also from the point of view of someone who has “an ideal weight”.

Although parts of the book made me want to shout at Annie (the main character) for being such a complete dork, I guess that made it all the more interesting. Over the past few months I have gained more than a couple pounds and it’s not for a want of trying that those pounds are persistently there! The more I try, the more I gain it would seem. So, on a level I could relate to Annie’s struggle.

I cannot say much more without giving away too much of the plot of the book but you should check it out. I think most people would like it.

Favourite Quotes

“I change the channel to another movie. An old one, but new to me. And, ironically, a thin, gorgeous blonde—Meg Ryan, maybe—rides her bike on a country road. She smiles like she has no cares in the world. Like no one ever judges her. Like her life is perfect. Wind through her hair and sunshine on her face. The only thing missing are the rainbows and butterflies and cartoon birds singing on her shoulder.

Maybe I should grab my bike and try to catch up with Mom, Mike, and the kids. They can’t be going very fast. I would love to feel like that, even if it’s just for a second—free and peaceful and normal.
Suddenly, there’s a truck. It can’t be headed toward Meg Ryan. Could it? Yes. Oh my God. No! Meg Ryan just got hit by that truck.
Figures. See what happens when you exercise?”

“And while the shape of my family might not match other families – or even what I imagined it should be – some pretty amazing people make room for me, watch out for me, and love me. Sometimes, even when I don’t know it. Make it so I fit. No matter what.”

I would recommend this book to:

• Young adults/teenagers
• Persons who like Young Adult Fiction
• Persons with weight concerns
• Anyone who is looking for a good, easy read

My rating:
Really liked it – 4 out of 5 stars