Appearance Obsession: Learning to Love the Way You Look

Rating:
Summary: Readable, educational, comforting.
Review: As a therapist, I have used this book in running workshops with college aged women. There is much information available in Johnston's book which is very readable, educational and comforting. She offers her own perspective as a woman living in a society in which "every day is a walking Miss America contest". Helpful checklists encourage readers to get in touch with their own level of discomfort with body image issues. Best of all, Johnston gives some practical advice for minimizing the impact that the media and other sources of appearance obsession has on us. By the way, I have used parts of her book in workshops for college men who also deal (albeit quietly) with similar issues.

Rating:
Summary: A book that really woke me up!
Review: For over 35 years, I have hated the way I look. When I was younger and thinner, I didn't think I was pretty or thin enough. As I matured, and gained some weight and facial lines, I despaired. I have spent more time and energy thinking about, despairing, berating myself, and trying to figure out my next move (to make myself prettier, thinner) than I have spent on any other aspect of my life.

This book really woke me up and made me realize how my obsession with my appearance has been controlling my life. I saw myself in all the examples - and finally started laughing! For the first time in my life, I am laughing at this ridiculous obsession, recognizing it as a horrible waste of my time, and moving on with my life.

My aim now is to be healthy and strong, to live to a nice old age, and enjoy my family and friends.

Rating:
Summary: Appearance Obsession : Learning to Love the Way You Look
Review: I'm afraid that I couldn't get past the first 3 chapters. This is not a book for women who are truly overweight. This is more of a book for those women who really do look good but just can't see it.

I am overweight, and people who say you need to learn to love the way you look no matter what you look like, have never had a significant weight problem.