RETHINKING THIN The New Science of Weight Loss--And the Myths and Realities of Dieting

Gina Kolata provides comforting insights on human nature, the politics of obesity science, and the culture of appearance. She is a lively and cogent writer who has a refreshing perspective on why people diet in spite of repeated failure. Her research and observations will resonate with people who torture themselves with abusive weight ideals, risky medications, or short-lived eating restrictions. Her affirming thesis, often supported by fascinating historical observations, is that we don't have to buy cultural messages that we are failures if we don't sign up for the latest weight-loss fad. Ellen Archer sounds even-tempered and self-assured as she delivers Kolata's manifesto. Her tone of subtle indignation enhances the author's mission to reduce blind adherence to inhumane appearance ideals. T.W. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 07/ JAN 08]