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Summary: A New Voice On This Subject
Review: I was a bit skeptical because Ms. Weiner is not a therapist I have heard speak about this issue before BUT I was pleasantly surprised to read her book and find out that she is a very fresh and welcoming voice on this topic.I enjoyed reading this book and seeing the unique and creative way she is approaching healing and recovery. I am an addictions counselor and will gladly pass this book on to my patients who are looking for a 'real' voice to speak to them.
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Summary: She is telling the truth
Review: I was alarmed to read in a recent interview with this author that: "In fact, she believes the majority of Americans suffer from disordered eating, which involves assigning emotional labels to our food." After picking up the book it seems that she believes everyone she's ever met has a serious eating disorder like anorexia or bulimia. She also thinks that she has some magical ability to know that they were suffering by the look in their eyes - this is highly unlikely, many of the people suffering from eating disorders look very normal.
As a person who knows about this subject because of a family member's anorexia, I can tell you this author is wrong about the subject. It is a serious one and someone without a degree or credentials shouldn't be making assumptions just based on her own (disjointed) world view. The author should share her story and triumph with her body image issues but leave the rest to experts.
For some reality: Research indicates that 1% of female adolecscents have anorexia, 4% of college age women have bulimia or bulimic patterns. And between 1-2% of Americans have binge eating disorders. Body Dismorphic Disorder affects about two percent of people in the U.S. and strikes males and females equally, usually before age eighteen. Sufferers are excessively concerned about appearance, body shape, body size, weight, etc. BDD is treatable and begins with an evaluation by a mental health care provider. More than half of teenaged girls are, or think they should be, on diets. About three percent of these teens go too far, becoming anorexic or bulimic. (these stats are from www.anred.com)
If you know someone who is dealing with these issues, they need therapy from trained professionals not books by lecturing performance artists.
Rating: 
Summary: Chasing Her Own Ambulance
Review: I was really excited to get my hands on this book. Having suffered from eating disorders myself, I was hoping it would re-affirm my recovery efforts. Imagine my surprise and disappointment after drowning in the hubris and shameless self-promotion that pours from every page of A Very Hungry Girl. The book prompted me to write my first Amazon review. I couldn't believe that there were positive Amazon reviews until I noticed that many of them hail from the author's friends. This manuever is wholly in line with the thinly-veiled thesis of the book. The author hopes to profit from her disease and even more abhorrent, the suffering of others. I wish I could write that the book is mediocre but at least the intention is heroic, but I cannot. Please, please, please read Life Inside the Thin Cage by Constance Rhodes for less ego and more inspiration.
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Summary: For once something I can relate with
Review: I was recommended this book by a friend with a young daughter who met Jessica at a conference. I loved the way this book was written. It was like having a conversation with all my friends at different points in our lives. I was really moved by the powerful stories of how young girls connected twisted body images, relationships and self worth. This is huge, I love that someone wrote a book that takes a fresh look at all human emotions and actions. Society has a voice and she has been listening and made some common sense out of what is going on and how to listen and watch for others feelings and actions. Very powerful....Thanks, my nieces will be getting a copy for Christmas!
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Summary: If I had it my way....
Review: I would put this book into the hands of every girl I know!! I have been hungry for so long. I have been in and out of hospitals and treatment centers. I have had Anorexia for over 10 years. I have read EVERYTHING out there. What I loved about this book was that she told the truth. Her truth. And she was brave to put it out there and even though she wasn't anorexic, I related to her truth. By the way, I am not usually a fan of self help books but this one is different. It inspired me very much.
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Summary: A Satiated Testimonial from a Character in the Book
Review: I've always feared self-help books. "What makes them know any better?" I always thought. But after reading Jessica's words and actually feeling her struggle and the struggle of others, I've realized, I have a lot to learn. Empowering, life changing, and amazing, Jessica Weiner's book makes you realize that young women do need a voice, and she is Jessica Weiner. An amazing combination of humor, reality, and a whole lot of soul-searching makes this book a MUST for any woman. You are not alone, and this book allows you to realize it!
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Summary: Finally Filling UP..
Review: I've always feared self-help books. "What makes them know any better?" I always thought. But after reading Jessica's words and actually feeling her struggle and the struggle of others, I've realized, I have a lot to learn. Empowering, life changing, and amazing, Jessica Weiner's book makes you realize that young women do need a voice, and she is Jessica Weiner. An amazing combination of humor, reality, and a whole lot of soul-searching makes this book a MUST for any woman. You are not alone, and this book allows you to realize it!
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Summary: This book is so inspiring!
Review: In "A Very Hungry Girl" I have learned so much about Jessica Weiner's life and the struggle she had everyday. At the end of her book she gave advice on how to fill up on life. It is a very inspiring book, and I admire Jessica so much for writing this. She is a strong woman, and you can tell my reading her book. Thank you Jessica for everything, you are my actionist!
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Summary: Review by New Moon: The Magazine for Girls and Their Dreams
Review: In Jessica Weiner's book, she talks about her struggle with eating disorders and her path to self-discovery and self-love. Her survivor story is witty and honest. Besides talking about touchy subjects like racism, body image, and moral values, this book gives tools and tips on how to be a positive member of society. Above all, it reminds us to love and respect the beautiful skin we're in. So if you need inspiration or information, or if you're just searching for a delectable page-turner, I recommend A Very Hungry Girl. Copyright 2004 New Moon Publishing, Duluth, MN
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Summary: There are MUCH better out there...
Review: Instead of a self-help book this is a "help the author feel good about herself" book. The focus on the students is interesting, but she would do well to limit her own stories. She even admits that the book was written to sell and to win her an appearance on Oprah.
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