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Teenage Waistland
“You all believe that losing one-hundred-plus pounds will solve everything, but it won’t. Something far heavier is weighing on you, and until you deal with that, nothing in your lives will be right.”
–Betsy Glass, PhD, at first weekly group counseling session for ten severely obese teens admitted into exclusive weight-loss surgery trial
Patient #1: Female, age 16, 5'4", 288 lbs .
Patient #2: Male, age 16, 6'2", 335 lbs .
Patient #3: Female, age 15, 5'6", 278 lbs .
Told in the voices of patients Marcie Mandlebaum, Bobby Konopka, and Annie “East” Itou, Teenage Waistland is a story of betrayal, intervention, a life-altering operation, and how a long-buried truth can prove far more devastating than the layers of fat that protect it.
Contains an afterword by Jeffrey L. Zitsman, MD, director of the Center for Adolescent Bariatric Surgery at Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital
–Betsy Glass, PhD, at first weekly group counseling session for ten severely obese teens admitted into exclusive weight-loss surgery trial
Patient #1: Female, age 16, 5'4", 288 lbs .
Patient #2: Male, age 16, 6'2", 335 lbs .
Patient #3: Female, age 15, 5'6", 278 lbs .
Told in the voices of patients Marcie Mandlebaum, Bobby Konopka, and Annie “East” Itou, Teenage Waistland is a story of betrayal, intervention, a life-altering operation, and how a long-buried truth can prove far more devastating than the layers of fat that protect it.
Contains an afterword by Jeffrey L. Zitsman, MD, director of the Center for Adolescent Bariatric Surgery at Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital
336 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
About the author
Lynn Biederman
2 books13 followersI’ve worked as a waitress (best job ever), an insurance broker (worst), a Macy’s department manager (the discounts!), a child abuse litigator (heartbreaking), an adoption lawyer (most rewarding), a journalist for a nationally syndicated sounds-of-nature radio show (very cool), and an elementary and high school librarian (biggest inspiration for writing). The opening line of my co-authored Young Adult novel, UNRAVELING, (July 2008, Delacorte Press/Random House), came from a saying I pulled out of a fortune cookie three years ago—The smart thing is to prepare for the unexpected. It made me think about my senior prom, and my mom, and that no matter how you try to prepare for the unexpected, sometimes you can’t. I live in Bedford, N.Y. with my husband and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Shelved as 'stricken'
July 14, 2014Despite what lazy novelists may believe, obesity is not rooted in emotional issues. It is rooted in genetics, where weight has exactly the same heritability as height.
January 4, 2011
I bought this book for my daughter, Jackie, and decided it would be a good idea to read it before giving it to her in order to make sure she wouldn't take the gesture as an affront or criticism. While reading it I soon became very certain that it wouldn't offend her, and in fact, would (and did) do just the opposite.
My daughter has been struggling with her weight for practically her whole life. Now that she's a teenager, it's harder than ever. I'm so glad my friend recommended this book, and I'm so glad I shared it with my daughter. By the botyh of us reading it, it loosened up the conversation between us about her weight and her future (a future that just might have weight loss surgery in the cards like the young people in the story). It allowed us to relate to each other by talking about the characters and their journeys through weight loss. The sense of humor and fresh take on the lives of overweight teens put a new spin on how I perceive Jackie and how she perceives herself. It's all for the better and I recommend parents and teens alike read this book, especially in families with overweight teens.
My daughter has been struggling with her weight for practically her whole life. Now that she's a teenager, it's harder than ever. I'm so glad my friend recommended this book, and I'm so glad I shared it with my daughter. By the botyh of us reading it, it loosened up the conversation between us about her weight and her future (a future that just might have weight loss surgery in the cards like the young people in the story). It allowed us to relate to each other by talking about the characters and their journeys through weight loss. The sense of humor and fresh take on the lives of overweight teens put a new spin on how I perceive Jackie and how she perceives herself. It's all for the better and I recommend parents and teens alike read this book, especially in families with overweight teens.
February 23, 2011
Teenage Waistland is a support group for obese teens undergoing the Lap Band weight loss surgery. Marcie struggles not just with a big body size, but a big mouth, ultra-thin remarried mother, and super-skinny stepsister. Bobbie wants to lose the weight, but it means he won't be able to play football anymore, which will disappoint his dad. And East has the toughest situation of all - dark and morbid herself, she lives by herself with her depressed mom who refuses to leave her bed. These three teens become friends, but through a fourth girl in their support group - energetic, enthusiastic Char. Except Char's hiding a secret, one that could change everything.
This book was written from three perspectives, Marcie, Bobbie, and East. Each was raw and honest, sucking me in with their no-holds-barred stories. The cover may look fluffy and cute, but this is in no way the case for the actual content. The three teens have their own emotional tales to tell, and I found myself enraptured by every one.
Marcie had a biting wit that led to one-liners that could crack me up and a certain scene that left me in hysterics, but beneath her cynicism was a lot of pain that made me feel for her. Bobbie seemed like a typical jock on the outside, proving through his budding romance with Char that he was actually sweet and gentle. It was easy to relate to him, what with the pressure he felt from everyone to continue playing football but his own disgust for his body. East had the most heart-rending story of the group. Her voice could be somewhat overly dark and depressing in places, but it was understandable given her struggles with her shell of a mother.
TEENAGE WAISTLAND was initially slow going for me, but the deeper in the story I sunk, the more addicted I became. By the end, I found myself completely immersed in the world of Marcie, Bobbie, East, and Char every time I cracked the book open, especially as twists showed up to bend everything around. This was a book I didn't expect to like as much as I did, and provided a pleasant surprise. Although it could be heavy on the emotions, I wouldn't call this a particularly dark book - there were several scenes that lightened things up, and the ending, while on the too-perfect side, wraps everything up nicely. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a read that's not fluffy while straying away from depressing.
This book was written from three perspectives, Marcie, Bobbie, and East. Each was raw and honest, sucking me in with their no-holds-barred stories. The cover may look fluffy and cute, but this is in no way the case for the actual content. The three teens have their own emotional tales to tell, and I found myself enraptured by every one.
Marcie had a biting wit that led to one-liners that could crack me up and a certain scene that left me in hysterics, but beneath her cynicism was a lot of pain that made me feel for her. Bobbie seemed like a typical jock on the outside, proving through his budding romance with Char that he was actually sweet and gentle. It was easy to relate to him, what with the pressure he felt from everyone to continue playing football but his own disgust for his body. East had the most heart-rending story of the group. Her voice could be somewhat overly dark and depressing in places, but it was understandable given her struggles with her shell of a mother.
TEENAGE WAISTLAND was initially slow going for me, but the deeper in the story I sunk, the more addicted I became. By the end, I found myself completely immersed in the world of Marcie, Bobbie, East, and Char every time I cracked the book open, especially as twists showed up to bend everything around. This was a book I didn't expect to like as much as I did, and provided a pleasant surprise. Although it could be heavy on the emotions, I wouldn't call this a particularly dark book - there were several scenes that lightened things up, and the ending, while on the too-perfect side, wraps everything up nicely. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a read that's not fluffy while straying away from depressing.
November 2, 2010
Marcie Mandlebaum knows she is grossly overweight, and can't help feeling as though her mother would love her more if only she was thinner. Bobby is a mediocre football player with dreams of being a star, but he has his "moobies" and his father's expectations to hurdle first. Annie "East" Itou feels sad all the time since her brother moved away and her mother refuses to leave her bedroom. The only time she feels half normal is when she is pigging out with Char. Char is East's best friend who is also hiding a huge secret, one that could unravel East's entire life. On the inside, these four teens are seemingly very different. On the outside, however, they are all morbidly obese. After going through a series of tests and interviews, they all qualify for a controversial Lap-Band clinical trial, a surgery that will help them lose large amounts of weight. It also means drastically changing their lifestyles, though, and the four friends will get to know themselves and each other better than they ever have before.
Teenage Waistland is a surprisingly good book. I was snagged right at the beginning from the incredibly raw voices each character had. But be warned: this book is not full of happy scenes and feel-good moments. On the contrary, the stories are all quite tragic and sad, each in their own unique way. I admit I got a little squeamish over some of the details, but it was fascinating to read about the Lap-Band. Who hasn't seen those ads and wondered what it was? I thought there wasn't enough about the eating habits or requirements after the surgery though, as it was mainly about the emotional impact of the weight and the baggage each teen had in their life. This almost glorified the surgery, showing the teens losing a ton of weight and overcoming their emotional baggage, without paying tribute to the intense eating lifestyle changes. Lynn Bierderman and Lisa Pazer are fantastic writers, creating some really touching moments and a few downright hilarious ones. Buying a certain item for Marcie's sister's party CRACKED me up! And though it felt rushed, the ending wrap-up for all of the characters was rewarding.
Teenage Waistland is a surprisingly good book. I was snagged right at the beginning from the incredibly raw voices each character had. But be warned: this book is not full of happy scenes and feel-good moments. On the contrary, the stories are all quite tragic and sad, each in their own unique way. I admit I got a little squeamish over some of the details, but it was fascinating to read about the Lap-Band. Who hasn't seen those ads and wondered what it was? I thought there wasn't enough about the eating habits or requirements after the surgery though, as it was mainly about the emotional impact of the weight and the baggage each teen had in their life. This almost glorified the surgery, showing the teens losing a ton of weight and overcoming their emotional baggage, without paying tribute to the intense eating lifestyle changes. Lynn Bierderman and Lisa Pazer are fantastic writers, creating some really touching moments and a few downright hilarious ones. Buying a certain item for Marcie's sister's party CRACKED me up! And though it felt rushed, the ending wrap-up for all of the characters was rewarding.
November 28, 2012
Reviewed by Jennifer Rummel for TeensReadToo.com
Eating for comfort is just the tip of the iceberg for this group of obese teens. They've each qualified for a weight loss trial surgery - the Land-Band procedure is currently available only for adults. With this trial, the teens are required to keep a journal, write down a truthful account of their food intake, and attend weekly group therapy sessions, as the surgery is only a tool and not a solution.
Told in alternative perspectives, Marcie, East, and Bobby share their ups and downs in the aftermath of the surgery. The group comes together to form Teenage Waistland, a support group. They share more than just their favorite foods. Friendships are made and broken. Romantic relationships begin. Family drama ensues. Secrets are revealed.
While dealing with a serious matter, including different points of view makes this book enjoyable to read. The teens' lives deal with significant issues which all changed their eating habits. They dig down to the deeper roots of their issues and, in some cases, begin the healing process.
TEENAGE WAISTLAND is a satisfying, emotional read that will linger with you after the last page has turned.
Eating for comfort is just the tip of the iceberg for this group of obese teens. They've each qualified for a weight loss trial surgery - the Land-Band procedure is currently available only for adults. With this trial, the teens are required to keep a journal, write down a truthful account of their food intake, and attend weekly group therapy sessions, as the surgery is only a tool and not a solution.
Told in alternative perspectives, Marcie, East, and Bobby share their ups and downs in the aftermath of the surgery. The group comes together to form Teenage Waistland, a support group. They share more than just their favorite foods. Friendships are made and broken. Romantic relationships begin. Family drama ensues. Secrets are revealed.
While dealing with a serious matter, including different points of view makes this book enjoyable to read. The teens' lives deal with significant issues which all changed their eating habits. They dig down to the deeper roots of their issues and, in some cases, begin the healing process.
TEENAGE WAISTLAND is a satisfying, emotional read that will linger with you after the last page has turned.
June 26, 2016
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2.5 Stars
This book follows a group of teenagers who undergo a weight loss surgery called LapBand. After their surgery, they attend a support group they call Teenage Waistland. The book is told from three perspectives: Bobby, East and Marcie. Through another girl in the support group, Char East's very bubbly best friend, they become friends. Only Char is hiding a secret that may change everything forever.
Each perspective was great to read from! Each teen had their own story and unique voice. I loved Marcie and how sarcastic and witty she was. Bobby was very relatable to me as he went through a lot of things in his life regarding football and his dad's expectations of him. East's story was absolutely heartbreaking to read about. Although her perspective was often very depressing, I enjoyed her voice. I really like how the book dealt with difficult topics effectively but also kept the story light and not to dark.
Personally, I did enjoy the book, but I found it to be very slow and not very engaging which is why I am only giving it 2.5 stars.
2.5 Stars
This book follows a group of teenagers who undergo a weight loss surgery called LapBand. After their surgery, they attend a support group they call Teenage Waistland. The book is told from three perspectives: Bobby, East and Marcie. Through another girl in the support group, Char East's very bubbly best friend, they become friends. Only Char is hiding a secret that may change everything forever.
Each perspective was great to read from! Each teen had their own story and unique voice. I loved Marcie and how sarcastic and witty she was. Bobby was very relatable to me as he went through a lot of things in his life regarding football and his dad's expectations of him. East's story was absolutely heartbreaking to read about. Although her perspective was often very depressing, I enjoyed her voice. I really like how the book dealt with difficult topics effectively but also kept the story light and not to dark.
Personally, I did enjoy the book, but I found it to be very slow and not very engaging which is why I am only giving it 2.5 stars.
March 3, 2020
Couldn’t finish it. Not a fan.
February 28, 2011
This book was a tough one for me, because I too was a severely overweight teen, despite not being quite at the level of these characters physically, I could personally identify with most of the emotional stuff. So going into it, I was sceptical, but I ended up being really impressed.
First off, they got the emotional stuff dead on. I've been through dramatic weight loss too, and it really is just as hard and scary to lose it - no matter how much one wants to - as it is to be overweight in the first place. Having not had surgery such as was done here, I can't specificially relate to those issues, but I do know well the world of eating buddies & sneak eating and the many other issues that come with being abnormally overweight.
The authors throw alot of issues in here besides just those directly related to food. This book has all the drama a person could want or handle. And yet, the drama in this book all has a point. It shows how overeating and being overweight is a much more complex issue than mere calorie intate/output. I like how it discussed the importance of support when making big changes such as these. I do think the method by which it achieved this realization in the characters was a bit over the top, but I guess sometimes such messages might be necessary.
My biggest beef with the book was that the clinical trial that these teens participated in only required 1 year of group counseling. It seemed to almost suggest that after that time, people would be just fine. Since many of the characters had to have that one cathartic moment or shocking realization, it also seemed to suggest that after that moment, all was smooth sailing. It wouldn't be. Also, I would think that most people with eating disorders - which these teens so clearly have - would require more help after the 1 year mark.
I didn't know how to feel about the final reveal about 1 character's weight loss success after her surgery. In many ways it seemed a little too "happy shiny people" given the nature of the book. On the other hand, I liked the fact that for one teen, surgery did not prove to be the ultimate factor in her return to mental and physical health. So I'm mixed there.
Ultimately the reason I gave this a 5 star review is that while I really did like the book, it is truely amazing to me that the authors could pull it off with as many issues and as much drama as they did. It could have been a disaster if handled with less skill and sensitivity. Kudos on a job well done.
First off, they got the emotional stuff dead on. I've been through dramatic weight loss too, and it really is just as hard and scary to lose it - no matter how much one wants to - as it is to be overweight in the first place. Having not had surgery such as was done here, I can't specificially relate to those issues, but I do know well the world of eating buddies & sneak eating and the many other issues that come with being abnormally overweight.
The authors throw alot of issues in here besides just those directly related to food. This book has all the drama a person could want or handle. And yet, the drama in this book all has a point. It shows how overeating and being overweight is a much more complex issue than mere calorie intate/output. I like how it discussed the importance of support when making big changes such as these. I do think the method by which it achieved this realization in the characters was a bit over the top, but I guess sometimes such messages might be necessary.
My biggest beef with the book was that the clinical trial that these teens participated in only required 1 year of group counseling. It seemed to almost suggest that after that time, people would be just fine. Since many of the characters had to have that one cathartic moment or shocking realization, it also seemed to suggest that after that moment, all was smooth sailing. It wouldn't be. Also, I would think that most people with eating disorders - which these teens so clearly have - would require more help after the 1 year mark.
I didn't know how to feel about the final reveal about 1 character's weight loss success after her surgery. In many ways it seemed a little too "happy shiny people" given the nature of the book. On the other hand, I liked the fact that for one teen, surgery did not prove to be the ultimate factor in her return to mental and physical health. So I'm mixed there.
Ultimately the reason I gave this a 5 star review is that while I really did like the book, it is truely amazing to me that the authors could pull it off with as many issues and as much drama as they did. It could have been a disaster if handled with less skill and sensitivity. Kudos on a job well done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2016
This was an everything novel. Yes, the main focus is on four teens who have lap-band surgery in order to lose weight, but within the lives of those four teens, just about everything happens. There's sibling rivalry, a parent living vicariously through his child, the big game, familial distance, and a terrible secret. Describing it in a list like that makes it seem like it's the description for the next episode of some popular soap opera. The good news is that all of these issues fit the characters and the novel without it feeling like it's trying to do too much.
Multiple voices allow for this to not feel quite so overwhelming. Marcie, Bobby, and East all take turns telling their portion of the story. There is a fourth character, Char (short for Charlotte), who does not narrate, but is still an integral part of the story. Plus, the fact that all her information is rolled up with East's is a wonderful method for showing how closely the two have bonded and is a perfect set-up for what's to come.
The characters are interesting and dynamic without coming across as cliche. This is tough when you have the jock, the big mouth, the wild girl, and the shy girl. Even the ancillary characters (like Marcie's perfect, modelesque step-sister) don't necessarily fit the mold you would expect.
I was sucked in to their stories and struggles. Some scenes made me laugh, some made me sad or angry, but mostly I just wanted to know what happened next.
Multiple voices allow for this to not feel quite so overwhelming. Marcie, Bobby, and East all take turns telling their portion of the story. There is a fourth character, Char (short for Charlotte), who does not narrate, but is still an integral part of the story. Plus, the fact that all her information is rolled up with East's is a wonderful method for showing how closely the two have bonded and is a perfect set-up for what's to come.
The characters are interesting and dynamic without coming across as cliche. This is tough when you have the jock, the big mouth, the wild girl, and the shy girl. Even the ancillary characters (like Marcie's perfect, modelesque step-sister) don't necessarily fit the mold you would expect.
I was sucked in to their stories and struggles. Some scenes made me laugh, some made me sad or angry, but mostly I just wanted to know what happened next.
February 19, 2012
I met the two authors of this book last year at a RI Library Association conference. I thought their intent was strong: to write a book that a did a good job of presenting the stories of teenagers who really work struggling with their weight issues in a realistic manner. This novel does just that. Written from the perspective of three obese teenagers who have joined a study to explore the potential use of lap-band surgery, this novel looks at the fact that weight issues are usually tied to other psychological challenges faced by the individual, which is one of the reason why the novel includes the use of group therapy, food diaries, and exercise regimens as part of the study.
I thought the three characters were well written, though many of the secondary characters take on a stock or flat presentation that makes it difficult to care about them or really know anything about them other than the fact that they are family/friends of the narrators or are also in the study. I thought this was a good look at the issue, but it sometimes comes across as being a bit preachy and hits you over the head with a sledgehammer rather than letting the characters and their stories send the message. Not a horrible book, but not a great one, either.
I thought the three characters were well written, though many of the secondary characters take on a stock or flat presentation that makes it difficult to care about them or really know anything about them other than the fact that they are family/friends of the narrators or are also in the study. I thought this was a good look at the issue, but it sometimes comes across as being a bit preachy and hits you over the head with a sledgehammer rather than letting the characters and their stories send the message. Not a horrible book, but not a great one, either.
February 2, 2011
Lisa Pazer and Lyn Biederman exceeded my expectations in this fun, sassy, clever and Enormously revealing narrative about what can be lost and gained in the world of fat teenagers. I found myself laughing out loud to the defensive, self-deprecating humor and less than tame conversations among this group of overweight teens particiating in a trial lapband surgery program. Together, these characters are struggling to come to terms with the emotional weight padding their fears, traumas, and insecurities. The way Pazer and Beiderman are forgiving of the fat-kid stereotype--not being too careful not to let it all hang out--and raising awareness to the truth of how obesity affects young people in the modern day makes this story full of both realistic life problems and over-the-top dramatic sequences. Reading a few chapters every night was as much of an indulgence for me as that 9pm bowl of moosetracks ice cream. I found myself feeling awkwardly sympathetic to characters I would have otherwise expected to feel very little connection to. The writing style is hip and totally in touch with today's fast-paced, texting-crazed, loose-lipped Teenage Waistland...
September 6, 2011
Teenage Waistland is the story of 3 patients in a clinical trial for the Lap- Band program. Marcie is 16, 288 lbs, and stuck with her size zero mom. Bobby is a star football player with "moobies'' (Man-boobies) and still a virgin at 16. His mom and dad want him to lose weight, but his dad doesn't want him to get "girl surgery". Annie "East" is 278 lbs and living with her depressed mom who won't get out of bed. The book is about the journey each character takes in the program.
If there's one thing I hate more than anything, it's co-authors! Forgive me, PC and Kristen Cast, but It annoys me that one person couldn't write a book ALONE!!!!! The reason I quit this book is because I got lost from page 1. The writing is disjointed, the characters confusing, and the dialogue a messy rant from the character's mind! All the characters sound the same in dialogue, I don't know who they're talking about, and I don't understand the setting or time frame that they talk about! I don't know if they are talking currently or in the past! I had to put the book down, or get a head rush from trying to master their concept of time!
If there's one thing I hate more than anything, it's co-authors! Forgive me, PC and Kristen Cast, but It annoys me that one person couldn't write a book ALONE!!!!! The reason I quit this book is because I got lost from page 1. The writing is disjointed, the characters confusing, and the dialogue a messy rant from the character's mind! All the characters sound the same in dialogue, I don't know who they're talking about, and I don't understand the setting or time frame that they talk about! I don't know if they are talking currently or in the past! I had to put the book down, or get a head rush from trying to master their concept of time!
February 8, 2011
*Very mature issues
Teenage Waistland centers on 4 morbidly obese teens that are in a clinical trial for Lap-Bands in teenagers.
Marcie - a girl who feels out-of-place with her new stepfamily and being taken away from her old home and father.
Char and East - a set of best friends that both have a horrifying event in their past that has left emotional scars
Bobby - a linebacker who is struggling with his dad's expectations for his future.
Throughout the trial, the teens are part of a support group that is learning how to handle their potential new lifestyles and weight loss. While they plan for their future weight loss, they will be forced to examine the deeper issues that have led to their problems with food.
The authors do not shy away from dealing with the tough issues that can cause teens to turn to food as a comfort, and the book does deal with some very touchy and tough topics: drinking, teen sex, abortion, suicide, etc. Teenage Waistland is an intriguing novel that deals with a topic that I haven't come across in any YA fiction before.
Teenage Waistland centers on 4 morbidly obese teens that are in a clinical trial for Lap-Bands in teenagers.
Marcie - a girl who feels out-of-place with her new stepfamily and being taken away from her old home and father.
Char and East - a set of best friends that both have a horrifying event in their past that has left emotional scars
Bobby - a linebacker who is struggling with his dad's expectations for his future.
Throughout the trial, the teens are part of a support group that is learning how to handle their potential new lifestyles and weight loss. While they plan for their future weight loss, they will be forced to examine the deeper issues that have led to their problems with food.
The authors do not shy away from dealing with the tough issues that can cause teens to turn to food as a comfort, and the book does deal with some very touchy and tough topics: drinking, teen sex, abortion, suicide, etc. Teenage Waistland is an intriguing novel that deals with a topic that I haven't come across in any YA fiction before.
March 26, 2011
I really enjoyed this book alot!! This book was different then I thought it was going to be about...
It follows about 5 overweight teenagers that go through (well, four really) lap-band surgery to help them with their weight loss. At first look I thought this book was strictly about their losing weight and what they go through pertaining to that, but I was wrong...
This does talk about their surgery and their weight loss progress, but there is more to this story then that. It talks about the underlying issues that each person is dealing with that has lead to their overeating. There is so much drama in this story! It has heartache, tragedy, forgiveness, etc....
I love the characters in this book, especially Char...The authors did a great job with character developement in this book...
I would definitely recommend this book to everyone....anyone that likes teenage angst, drama, etc...
It follows about 5 overweight teenagers that go through (well, four really) lap-band surgery to help them with their weight loss. At first look I thought this book was strictly about their losing weight and what they go through pertaining to that, but I was wrong...
This does talk about their surgery and their weight loss progress, but there is more to this story then that. It talks about the underlying issues that each person is dealing with that has lead to their overeating. There is so much drama in this story! It has heartache, tragedy, forgiveness, etc....
I love the characters in this book, especially Char...The authors did a great job with character developement in this book...
I would definitely recommend this book to everyone....anyone that likes teenage angst, drama, etc...
August 20, 2011
This book was unsparing in its look at the ways our society deals with childhood obesity. She covers just about every approach possible, from fat camps to parents' support groups, and ends up admitting that there is no one approach that is effective for all children and that fighting childhood obesity is a complicated, frustrating endeavor, especially for parents.
The author herself was never terribly overweight, but grew up obsessed about getting fat. This is actually a sub-theme of the book: the way that we make our children fat-conscious, even when they don't really have a weight problem.
I recommend this book for anyone who is concerned about how we handle the problem of childhood obesity in our society. This isn't a book just for parents and in fact, even teens could get a lot out of this book. The bottom line is, we need to think more empathetically and comprehensively about the problem and this book will help us to do so.
The author herself was never terribly overweight, but grew up obsessed about getting fat. This is actually a sub-theme of the book: the way that we make our children fat-conscious, even when they don't really have a weight problem.
I recommend this book for anyone who is concerned about how we handle the problem of childhood obesity in our society. This isn't a book just for parents and in fact, even teens could get a lot out of this book. The bottom line is, we need to think more empathetically and comprehensively about the problem and this book will help us to do so.
November 24, 2015
Mixed feelings from this book.
At the very beginning it was somewhat compelling, but I got confused because I didn't notice the narrator shift between chapters. Once I cleared that up I was invested into the characters almost right away, with the exception of Bobby whom I really didn't care that much for. He just wasn't as compelling as the girls. Up until the middle mark I was having a good time reading it, and then when the "secret" came out I was floored by how out of left field it was. Then everything became as clunky as the beginning and to add to the misery, it became very cheesy and unbelievable and touchy-feely. By the end everything was wrapped up nicely, which made me gag a bit because I'm sorry but I would not have forgiven Char for anything she did. At all. She got off too easily. So I had this at 3.75 stars in my head and then 3 stars and now I'm giving it a final score of 2 stars because of the dramatic decrease in quality over the course of the book.
At the very beginning it was somewhat compelling, but I got confused because I didn't notice the narrator shift between chapters. Once I cleared that up I was invested into the characters almost right away, with the exception of Bobby whom I really didn't care that much for. He just wasn't as compelling as the girls. Up until the middle mark I was having a good time reading it, and then when the "secret" came out I was floored by how out of left field it was. Then everything became as clunky as the beginning and to add to the misery, it became very cheesy and unbelievable and touchy-feely. By the end everything was wrapped up nicely, which made me gag a bit because I'm sorry but I would not have forgiven Char for anything she did. At all. She got off too easily. So I had this at 3.75 stars in my head and then 3 stars and now I'm giving it a final score of 2 stars because of the dramatic decrease in quality over the course of the book.
March 7, 2012
Pleasantly surprised.
Dates don't seem to match? Page 103 has 7/10/09 surgery day, and page 108 has 7/12/09 as birthday party.
I learned that "trouper" is the correct spelling when a person is loyal, dependable (page 160).
Good quotes:
"...if,..you can start focusing more on other people, even when you're in pain yourself, it will help you heal from this. I promise. And the next time someone you care about is in pain, you will be there for them." Page 246
"Okay - food is often used as an expression of love, which is why it often translates into a substitution for love, or a perceived lack of love." Page 248
"I was in the same pain he was, so how could I ever be angry or not understand what he was going through?" Page 291
Dates don't seem to match? Page 103 has 7/10/09 surgery day, and page 108 has 7/12/09 as birthday party.
I learned that "trouper" is the correct spelling when a person is loyal, dependable (page 160).
Good quotes:
"...if,..you can start focusing more on other people, even when you're in pain yourself, it will help you heal from this. I promise. And the next time someone you care about is in pain, you will be there for them." Page 246
"Okay - food is often used as an expression of love, which is why it often translates into a substitution for love, or a perceived lack of love." Page 248
"I was in the same pain he was, so how could I ever be angry or not understand what he was going through?" Page 291
February 23, 2013
The biggest problem I found with this book is that each patient had a huge 'AHA' moment in their lives that led to weight gain. As each "uncovered" their moment, they were able to deal with their weight issues.
I do believe for some people that there is one moment, however for most of us there is not. Perhaps there is a genetic predisposition coupled with many little moments. The solution to maintaining a healthy weight is not that simple.
Anyway, I found that part of the book unrealistic. I was also not thrilled with the book's seeming promotion of toxic friendships toward the teen characters.
I did find the book readable and the information on Lap Band aimed toward teens was very interesting.
Three and a half stars.
I do believe for some people that there is one moment, however for most of us there is not. Perhaps there is a genetic predisposition coupled with many little moments. The solution to maintaining a healthy weight is not that simple.
Anyway, I found that part of the book unrealistic. I was also not thrilled with the book's seeming promotion of toxic friendships toward the teen characters.
I did find the book readable and the information on Lap Band aimed toward teens was very interesting.
Three and a half stars.
September 2, 2014
I found this book to very knowledgeable about lapband surgery the the psychological stresses surrounding weight. It was a delightful read! However it was very cheesy towards the end and the ending seemed rushed and a bit ridiculous? Also I would have liked to have seen a bit more of the middle part of the lapband process. My sister went through the procedure when she was 18 and she is now 22 with over 100 lbs lost and the process was not all sunshine and daisies as the ending makes it seem.
Overall a great introduction for the lap band world for possible candidates but definitely not a complete source of info! (Which is exactly what this book should be because it's YA and fun and not medical book)
Overall a great introduction for the lap band world for possible candidates but definitely not a complete source of info! (Which is exactly what this book should be because it's YA and fun and not medical book)
December 15, 2015
Wasn't bad, wasn't great either.
I think my main problem with this book was that Marcie and East were both really naturally-written, organic narrators whose narrative just flowed really easily...
...And then we have Bobby.
My God, Bobby was two-dimensional. I physically cringed reading his narration. It was so unbelievably just... Not good. Poorly written. It's like the author sat down, decided to write from a male perspective, and said "Crap, how do you write a convincing jock?" and then had his stream of conscious be literally every "Dudebro" stereotype imaginable, from the slang to the attitude.
It was completely unbelievable, and not something I can just overlook from an author that otherwise wrote the female characters with convincing narratives. Not terribly impressed.
I think my main problem with this book was that Marcie and East were both really naturally-written, organic narrators whose narrative just flowed really easily...
...And then we have Bobby.
My God, Bobby was two-dimensional. I physically cringed reading his narration. It was so unbelievably just... Not good. Poorly written. It's like the author sat down, decided to write from a male perspective, and said "Crap, how do you write a convincing jock?" and then had his stream of conscious be literally every "Dudebro" stereotype imaginable, from the slang to the attitude.
It was completely unbelievable, and not something I can just overlook from an author that otherwise wrote the female characters with convincing narratives. Not terribly impressed.
December 14, 2010
I really liked this book. It was original in that it was about a subject that you can't find much background on. There is a lot of medical jargon on the internet but no real stories about lap band surgery and I am really interested to know more about it. The story is about four teenagers trying to get into the FDA trail and it really intrigued me to understand why they were so sure this would work for them.
Even though I am not sure if I will get the surgery, this book gave me food for thought. Even if you are not overweight it is interesting to see how these characters relate. I recommend this book.
Even though I am not sure if I will get the surgery, this book gave me food for thought. Even if you are not overweight it is interesting to see how these characters relate. I recommend this book.
February 16, 2012
I tried to read this book as I'm wont to read all young adult titles that feature fat kids either overcoming their weight (by losing weight) or fat kids accepting themselves as is. There have a been a slew of these over the past few years, and I've been chomping through them all. Most of them, I can't stand. I understand that I'm not the target audience but I don't like the over use of snark, slang, brand names or text language in my books. It takes me completely out of the story. Also, unlikable characters should have at least something that makes you want to cheer for them. Maybe I'm getting to old to read YA fiction, but this is definitely a book I CAN'T recommend.
June 21, 2012
As someone who has struggled with their weight, I really appreciated the it-isn't-that-easy perspective. I remember one book I read in junior high where the MC was a little chubby and didn't want to be, so she joined Weight Watchers and then everything was perfect. I also appreciated how this book got me thinking about my own eating habits and analyzing the possibility of an emotional factor to my snackitude. (Conclusion: If my hands aren't doing something, I eat.) I'm always appreciative of books that encourage readers to think about their own lives. More than that, I will not (can not) say.
October 17, 2014
Teenage Waistland written by Lynn Biederman is a very bad book and I would not reccomend. It is very boring and gives many pointless information. By the look of this cover, one would think that it is about anorexia..it is not. This book pertains to obesity and how teens feel about their weight. It is a fiction, however it is written as a non-fiction novel. Many high school students do not enjoy non-fiction which is why I would not reccomend. Teenage Waistland was very hard to keep up with and read because it was so boring and goes back and forth between characters. It is not a complicated book, yet it is complicated to become intertwined and involved in the reading.
February 10, 2011
This was a good read, but nothing completely outstanding about it. I liked how it was told in multiple voices and really got into why each of the characters gained the weight in the first place and how they dealt with it. It read a little bit like a giant group therapy session, but a lot of the book actually takes place in a group therapy. It was nice seeing typical teenage issues (body issues, crushes, expectations, dealing with school, college) all handled here while staying true to the plot of weight loss.
Overall, a quick read but I probably won't remember much of it a year from now.
Overall, a quick read but I probably won't remember much of it a year from now.
January 6, 2011
I'm getting lapband surgery in a couple of months and finding this book was fated. I had so much fun reading it and it brought to life the experience of the lapband process that was swimming around as a personal dialogue in my head. Reading Teenage Waistland enhanced my journey toward getting skinny. I felt like I was sharing in this journey with the characters. I don't have enough drama in my life anymore (things are pretty predictable), so I relished in the drama between the characters in this story. Better than reality TV!!!!
January 11, 2011
The best part of this book is the character East. And I say this because I am so much like her it's scary. I don't know if that's a good thing, but I was amazed at the way she was portrayed and how true to life a girl like her is. Her dark, shy, painful way of experiencing the world in contrast to her best friend Char who is bubbly and full of life reminds me of me and my best friend in high school. Although I have never struggles with being overweight, I do know what it feels like to have a controlling force in my life the way the characters in the book do with ther obsession with food.
January 14, 2011
This book is great! I have to commend Lisa Pazer and Lynn Beiderman on their quick, witty, fresh prose style. Well-crafted, dynamic, relevant. Being an eighth-grade English teacher and a parent of a 12 and 16 year-old, I've read many YA lit pieces. I think this one fits into the must-read for 2011 category due to its "chic" and dare I say risky subject matter. Pazer and Beiderman took the battle of the bulge to the limits with this one, while steering clear of any type of prescriptive or "preachy" undertones.
April 13, 2011
Not without merit; some of the backgrounds (of the characters) are more complex than they (at first) appear, and the way the book switches from POV to POV helps to make them appear pretty "straightforward". There is significant character growth, and an interesting way that the characters end up interacting. Teenage Waistland is not a perfect book, and is a bit of a slow start due to how privileged most of the characters are. I got something out of it though, and there were definitely parts that felt real. It is a good book to read at least once.
November 16, 2011
I thought this was a well done book for a high school audience. Teenage obeesity is a reality, and the reasons for it--such as tragic life events, family environment, and social isolation-- are all explored through these characters. The story follows a group of obese teens in a clinical trial of lap-band weight loss surgery (which I didn't know too much about, having only heard about the gastric bypass surgery) and their counseling sessions both before and after the surgery. It's a serious topic but the book does not take itself too seriously. Fun read, good information.
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