Book Review: 45 POUNDS (MORE OR LESS) by K.A. Barson

45 POUNDS (MORE OR LESS) by K.A. Barson

• Young Adult Contemporary
• Arriving July 11, 2013 from Viking (Penguin)
• Available for preorder wherever books are sold.

In this first person narrative, KA Barson delivers a sassy, upbeat, contemporary look at the life of a teenage girl who has struggled with weight for most of her young life and would like to lose 45 pounds before being a bridesmaid at her aunt’s wedding. In this personal account, the main character, Ann, is sharp-witted, strong, and self-deprecating, yet is often hurt by her seemingly perfect, yet clueless mom. In using this point of view, Barson succeeds in helping the reader understand how a person carrying extra weight might feel a constant physical and mental fatigue – from trying on clothes, to feeling judged for every bite of food she puts in her mouth. There are many cringe-worthy moments, yet thankfully, Barson includes humorous relief through Ann’s twin four-year-old siblings and her off beat grandma.

This is an underdog story that had me rooting for the main character’s success. As the layers peel back, though, there is much more to this story than weight loss. It looks at complex attitudes toward food, conformity to a perceived norm, what it means to be healthy, the unintended ripple effect that adult behavior can have on children who are watching their every move, and it reframes ‘perfect.’ It also touches on toxic vs. healthy relationships, discrimination and bullying, and taking responsibility for ones own thoughts and behaviors. And it is written with humor and grace. 

While there is a bit of mature language, (it’s not overdone) I think this book could be read and enjoyed by teen girls as their focus on body image and place in the world intensifies. On another level, I could see mothers and daughters reading this book together, and using it as a kick-start for a discussion on healthy lifestyle and strong relationships.

My Goodreads Rating: 5 stars out of 5 

Note to writers: I think that 45 POUNDS (MORE OR LESS) is an excellent example of how an author uses voice to build character, and how humor can be used to balance an intense subject.

01/09/2013