Product Description
Institute of Psychiatry, London, U.K. Books for sufferers, families and other caregivers. Softcover. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

This book saved my life (and my sanity)!!
I'm a recovering anorexic (thanks to this book)It's full of great information on the psychological, physiological, and social effects of this horrifying disease.It provides great information for friends and family on how to support those suffering from anorexia, and dedicates an entire section to "the sufferer".I wanted to recover so badly, but I didn't know where or how to begin, and I was too humiliated to see anyone professionally.I had forgotten how to eat: when to eat, what to eat, andI didn't know what eating again would do to my body.This book told me all that, and helped me to differentiate my self from the "anorexia minx"This book is sympathetic, supportive, informative, and a must for sufferers and their friends and families! ... Read more

Product Description

First published more than twenty years ago, with almost 150,000 copies sold, The Golden Cage is still the classic book on anorexia nervosa, for patients, parents, mental health trainees, and senior therapists alike. Writing in direct, jargon-free style, often quoting her patients' descriptions of their own experience of illness and recovery, Bruch describes the relentless pursuit of thinness and the search for superiority in self-denial that characterizes anorexia nervosa. She emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and offers guidance on danger signs. Little-known when this groundbreaking book was first published, eating disorders have become all too familiar. Sympathetic and astute, The Golden Cage now speaks to a new generation.

"The story of the disorder itself is beautifully written, presented with a deftness, lightness, and accuracy that make the reader yearn to turn the page, to watch the unfolding of this very enigmatic disorder. This is the single most important professionally written book for laypersons and parents."
-Shervert H. Frazier, M.D., McLean Hospital

"The Golden Cage is eminently readable and generously spiced with vivid illustrations from Bruch's own clinical case material. Her discussion of and generalization from this material is wonderfully astute."
-Contemporary Psychology

Hilde Bruch was Professor of Psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicineand the author of Learning Psychotherapy: Rationale and Ground Rules (Harvard) and Eating Disorders. (20070501) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

best author on eating disorders
I developed anorexia nervosa back in 1975.I discovered I had this disorder through a Good Housekeeping magazine article written/published in June of 75. After learning about this bazaar illness I went to the library to read as much as I could about this illness.At that time I could only find books written by Hilda Bruch.Wow, what an eye opener.Even though this illness nearly killed me, it was Bruch's books that gave me incredible insights about my disorder. This is the only book on anorexia nervosa I would recommend to anybody.

Looking for the personality that precedes anorexia
I was looking to find the personality behind anorexia before I recognized that my 7-year-old niece was well on her way in terms of personality.(If the anoretic in a large family is known as the snitch, no-one would recognize that in the usual small family.)I've read any number of books about anorexia, but none more sympathetic from an outsiders view.Unfortunately, most books on the subject are written by anoretics.It's a stretch to believe that they can be objective about their own condition.But they have lived it.There are never solid comments such as "no sense of humor" or having a "tiny little voice".These are physical manifestations that can be easily recognized.I think that's important.

descriptive account of anorexia nervosa
empathic portrayal of anorexia nervosa by a pioneer in the field;it has human descriptives of everything characterized scientifically in textbooks and journals.

Not just
This book was extremely informative about the underlying causes of eating disorders. It gave me a better understanding for how they can develop in the home, how parental pressures at a young age can have a huge influence, and also supports the fact that you don't have to have a tragic up bringing to be subject to an eating disorder.

A must read for any parent with a mentally ill daughter
A remarkable description of the basic personality and family mechanisms involved in teenage mental disorders and their anorectic expression. ... Read more

Product Description
Dr. Sacker and Dr. Zimmer explain in full detail the causes and symptoms of these disorders and how and where to find help. Using case histories and first-person accounts by patients, their families, their physicians and friends, Dying To Be Thin is the complete resource for anyone concerned with these dangerous disorders. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Dying to be thin
This is a great book and very informative. There are accounts of what anorexia is truly like from people who suffered from this. It made it less difficult to see how and why they become this way.

A Life Vest Thrown Into A Stormy Ocean
With society placing the stress it does on females being physically thin, I think the numbers this book quotes for the totals of US women with serious eating disorders is, if anything, on the low side. I along with virtually every woman I know has at one time or another had what amounts to an eating disorder and in a few cases, had them to a serious extent. With body image being as important as it is, particularly with teenage girls, I'm pessimistic that this book or anything else can do more than try to spur the one suffering from this insidious disease to WANT to do something about her affliction. I read this book because I was curious to see if things have gotten any better in the last decade as far as treatment of eating disorders goes, and also in the level of collective recognition among young women that a disorder is there in their own lives. From what I read here, I'd say the answer to both is no. On the positive side, this book did one of the better examples of addressing this life-threatening situation and if it can be gotten to the right hands, it could truthfully save some lives that might be in danger right at this very moment.

Amazing - the authors have an in depth view of the disease
Dying to be Thin helped me in ways beyond measure. I knew that a lot of what I was doing to my body was destructive, but only after reading the book did I want to seek help to end the disease- or try to at least. A big thank you and hugs to the authors.

Wonderful book. It gave me the courage to quit.
I would recommend this book to anyone, but especially those who suffer from anorexia or bullemia.I purchased this book at the height of mydisease in 1997 and it gave me the courage to quit.The stories are realand so easy to relate to.I cried through half the book realizing howpathetic I was.I would love to someday personally thank the authors...

Excellent and complete case studies-format; packed with info
I read this book as my daughter was hospitalized for anorexia.The fear and guilt were HUGE as I began reading (they still are) but Zimmer's and Sacker's work as an M.D. specializing in Eating Disorders has provided much-needed insight into sufferers' motivations and pain.My daughter, age 14, marked all the pages that "spoke" to her...she marked MANY pages. Authors Zimmer and Sacker attempt, and for the most part succeed, in explaining all variations of EDs. Esp poignant for me were the comments from a mother, and her powerlessness to stop her daughter from destroying herself through starvation.I bought several copies to distribute to family members so that they can support my daughter in recovery.Very useful is a section for educators on how they can assist a student who has an ED. ... Read more

Product Description
Anorexic Bodies is an unprecedented feminist and sociological study of the historical and political context of anorexia. MacSween begins with the premise of the body as a "concept" rather than a physical organism, analyzing different body concepts across time to show how dominant social categories shape the culture's understanding of the body. MacSween also looks at how gender divisions are reflected in current perceptions of the body by examining representations of women's bodies in rape and pornography. Also discussed are current explanations of anorexia through an examination of popular and feminist analyses of anorexia. ... Read more

Product Description
Why are so many women and girls distressed about their bodies, about food and about being a woman? The Thin Woman offers new feminist and post-structuralist insights into the problems of anorexia nervosa.Helen Malson draws on historical and contemporary literature to complement the findings of her own original research, based on the findings from a series of interviews with women diagnosed as anorexic. What does the medical profession "know" about anorexia? This volume questions the diagnosis of this eating disorder as a medical pathology, and asks the best way to understand this problem. In reviewing the history of diagnosis concerning anorexia along with her interviews, we can begin to see the problem as one socially situated in the conceptions of gender, subjectivity and control. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

read it (with a dictionary)
The book is good, but be warned: the language is not intended for the lay person.This is even more unfortunate, because the author has really great, wellbuilt arguments. They sometimes get lost in the jargon of academia.Still, I have gone back to it many times as a reference.The historical research is unparalleled, and fascinating to find examples of aesceticism and self-stavation in the middle ages, for example.It's brave to take the unapologetic step into examining thinness as an aesthetic. Definitely worth it. ... Read more

Product Description

After knowing friends with anorexia and being baffled by their behavior, Laura Moisin suddenly found herself prone to the same disease—not eating at all and going weeks at a time consuming nothing but water and the occasional black coffee. Deceiving therapists by misleading them with symptoms of depression, her anorexia is prolonged, and her health deteriorates rapidly. Recognizing that she has a serious disorder, she quickly finds a therapist working at her university and openly confesses that she’s an anorexic seeking treatment. Her therapist looks at her doubtfully and says, shockingly, “No, I don’t think you’re an anorexic.” Already swirling in a state of confusion, the attacks on New York’s World Trade Center—an event the author witnessed first-hand from her apartment—only accelerate her path to further self-destruction. Without preaching, this memoir offers a reassuring first-hand voice for the many who suffer silently, and provides strength for family and friends to help heal destructive behaviors.

Customer Reviews (3)

Beginning grabbed my attention, but later half left me wanting more.
I appreciated the author's revealing her experience with anorexia and her courage to share her inner experience.When I read personal accounts, I want the author to delve deep into their emotional states, ask themselves honestly why they do this and what does it prove. She didn't get into the physical, emotional or spiritual pain enough or question herself the "why" of this disease enough for me. I would like her to have written more in depth about how 9/11 changed her and her environment. I was left wanting more raw feeling, maybe more maturity in the writing - and I was a bit disappointed in the second half of the book. I'm a pretty critical reader though, so my comments might be a bit harsh.One does not really get over the disease; the hardest part is realizing there is no achievement in being the thinnest, anorexia steals time one never gets back.

Anorexia as a metaphor for a deeper metaphysical struggle
Amazing, astute, and awe-inspiring! In contrast to many other books on eating disorders, Laura Moisin's _Kid Rex_ does not focus on the symptoms and behaviors of the disease, nor does it offer an over-simplified, linear plan for recovery. Instead, Laura's chilling memoir helps illuminate the darkness of the disease by exposing the core inner struggle of the person beneath the symptoms. Throughout the book, her narratives and insights are simultaneously subtle and profound. For example, in a few poignant sentences, she is able to capture the essence of the anorexic experience (p. 125):

"Anorexics experience a sense of power, calm, and well-being when we deprive ourselves. By looking frightful and skeletal we are simultaneously pushing people away in a most destructive, passive-aggressive way, and challenging those we love to accept us and to fight for us, regardless....Food becomes symbolic of that which we can't control but must, that which we absolutely need but absolutely reject. Attempting to detangle oneself from this complicated interplay between pleasure and pain, destruction and creation, is in fact a metaphysical struggle for the very life and survival that become increasingly impossible to grasp."

Although _Kid Rex_ is about Laura's struggle with anorexia,it can also been seen as a metaphor for how we are all in danger of starving to death if our lives lack nourishing meaning and purpose. I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to better understand eating disorders--or, for that matter, anyone who wants to gain insight into living a life that feeds the body, mind, and soul.

Touching, sad and hopeful
I have an eating disorder and I am currently in recovery - its not easy.However, what makes it much easier for me is knowing that there are many, many people out there who suffer from the same disease as I do.That is why I absolutely love to read books on the subject - especially when they are of the sensitivity, quality and honesty displayed in Kid Rex.

This is a heartwrenching, honest and beautiful book written by someone who has been there and has lived to tell about it.

Yes, its extremely difficult to read this book - the experiences, thoughts, feelings and emotions of the author are on display for all to see, but that is just the point - no more hiding before the food (whether it be anorexia, bulimia or overeating).

The author tells us like it is - this is not a fairy tale where everyone comes out at the end with a big smile, having resolved all of the issue. Eating disorders are insidious and run deep, but Kid Rex gives up hope - illuminates without judging and is touching and moving.

I LOVED this book and I am in awe of the author who has the courage to 'feel' again and to share with us. ... Read more

Product Description

Product Description

My Kid is Back explains how family-based treatment can greatly reduce the severity of anorexia nervosa in children and adolescents, allowing the sufferer to return to normal eating patterns, and their families to return to normal family life.

In this book ten families share their experiences of living with anorexia. Parents describe their frustrations in seeking help for their child and dealing with their behaviour and sufferers discuss how the illness gets into their mind and takes over their personality.

By focusing on the Maudsley family approach and expert advice from Professor Daniel Le Grange, and including clear lists of illness symptoms, strategies for parents and carers to follow, and information on getting further treatment and support, this book proves an essential resource for families who want to win the battle with anorexia nervosa.

Customer Reviews (2)

Helpful and hopeful advice for parents of kids with anorexia nervosa
My Kid is Back: Empowering Parents to Beat Anorexia Nervosa by Australian author and journalist June Alexander will be a valuable resource for parents dealing with anorexia nervosa. June, inspired by her own experience with the illness, talks with leading experts and ten families about family-based treatment. These stories will feel familiar to anyone who who has confronted an eating disorder.Parents will identify with their fear and confusion as each family struggles to understand this baffling illness and find the help they need. The voices of the young people emerging from the disorder are heard as well.Just how do they manage to overcome anorexia nervosa? These resourceful families pull together and work out solutions. My Kid is Back will provide hope and inspiration toparents. These moving accounts will provide insight into anorexia nervosa and the real-life difficulties families face for eating disorder professionals, as well.

The families in the book all live in Australia, but the book is truly global in perspective. Professional advice is offered by leading experts on three continents. Daniel le Grange, author of Help Your Teenager Beat an Eating Disorder, contributes an introductory chapter explaining the Maudsley approach, its history, and research support, and a second chapter in the book's "What are Parents to Do?" section with practical strategies for parents. Ivan Eisler of London's Maudsley Hospital writes the forewordand offers the UK perspective on anorexia treatment. June also talks with Westmead Children's Hospital and Oak House to provide Australian treatment picture.

Parents need good information and real-life examples of success
Parents, if your loved one has been diagnosed with an eating disorder I very much recommend this book. I've read them all in my years of writing and talking with families, and I wish all families facing this diagnosis in their child had the benefit of this kind of experience and inspiration. Alexander tells the story of these families with great compassion and insight, and useful information.

Parents facing an eating disorder need and deserve good information and inspiration. This book offers both. The information is evidence-based, and the experiences of these ten families provides a wonderful training in how to face this daunting illness and seek good help. ... Read more

Product Description
Living in a culture obsessed with body size and shape, it can be hard to feel good about the way you look. But eating disorders caused by unrealistic body image ideals create much larger problems--diminished self-confidence, unhealthy eating and exercising habits, and an inability to see yourself as a person rather than a number on the scale.

What's Eating You? takes aim at the motivations behind your relationship with food and helps you to better understand how your need to control what you eat can end up controlling you. As you complete the worksheets in What's Eating You, you'll learn more about the beliefs and experiences that contribute to your disorder. Each worksheet includes questions and exercises targeting the cultural myths, perfectionism, stress, and lack of self-confidence that are often at the heart of a dysfunctional relationship with food. Once these issues are addressed, you'll be able to gather the strength you need to make peace with your body, exude confidence, and live a healthy life.

Customer Reviews (2)

Great "support system" book
I have found this book to be fairly helpful. Their are many different kinds of exercises and the book is easy to figure out so it's simple to flip through and pick and choose rather than having to read the whole book cover to cover. The only thing that is a little unfortunate is that their are activities for those who suffer from overeating as well as anorexia and/or bulimia. While I understand why they're all put together in one book, I personally can not relate to the activities which do not apply to my disorder and I just wish that it had been separated into two different books.
While I purchased this book because I have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, I can also see how it would almost be even more helpful for someone who hasn't been diagnosed because it helps to advise teens as to what kind of behavior is normal and can make someone aware of behavior which may be leading them towards a more serious problem.
Overall,I would say this is a worthwhile purchase.

Extremely Helpful!
I recommend this book to every client I have with teenagers, and every friend I have with kids!Creating a great body image is paramount to growing children in this day and age.Tammy Nelson does this in such a way that kids and adults alike are left with more confidence and self esteem than they ever thought possible!

Melanie Barnum, CH
Certified Hypnotist & Intuitive Counselor ... Read more

Product Description
'The book is immensely reassuring to any parent who has experienced at first hand the problems that a young boy already caught up in the maelstrom of adolescence can both experience and cause when anorexia arrives. Any parent or carer concerned about a boy who may be developing or has already developed an eating disorder will find this book useful and supportive even when it is talking about the most difficult problems that affect sufferers and their families' - Signpost

`This is a detailed observational account of severe Anorexia Nervosa in a boy, and the effect on his family. It documents their emotional and torturous journey through treatment back to full health. The descriptions of the disorder are written without jargon and with great accuracy. The book is packed with practical tips on how to manage everyday situations. This is truly a book that adolescents, their families, and clinicians should read' - Dr David Firth, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

`'Boys don’t get anorexia' is a phrase that any parent who is concerned about a son who is losing too much weight or exercising excessively will hear at some time or other. Well, boys DO get eating disorders and in this very personal and insightful book, Jenny Langley looks at what it means to have a son who does in fact have anorexia. Jenny writes about the way in which the disorder crept up on her family and then seemed to take over the household. The slow painful climb of [her] son back to recovery is recounted in uncomfortable detail. Ultimately however this is a story of hope. Joe does recover eventually and although life is by no means the same as before, it does return to a new normality' - From the foreword by Steve Bloomfield, Eating Disorders Association

Eating disorders are usually associated with females but there are an increasing number of males affected by anorexia and bulimia. Often there is a link between male eating disorders and athletic prowess, and the quest for physical perfection can result in damaging behaviours associated with diet, supplements and exercise.

This unique and important book combines a mine of information with a readable and engaging case study. The author was shocked and horrified when her son developed anorexia at the age of twelve. Having a research background, she naturally turned her attention to finding out as much as she could about how best to combat this terrifying illness. Her son is now fully recovered and has supported this book that not only describes their experiences, but also provides a practical guide on how to cope with male eating disorders.

A much needed resource for other parents in similar situations, the book will also be of interest to people working in health centres, clinics and hospitals. It will also be invaluable for youth support groups, teachers and sports coaching staff, who are often the first to be aware of concerns about eating disorders in young men.

Jenny is a Chartered Accountant who worked in the pharmaceutical industry for many years. Latterly she has also worked in the Financial Services Industry (for six years) as a pharmaceutical and healthcare analyst and salesperson.She is a member of the Eating Disorder Association and a volunteer member of their Self Help Network. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

SOURCES in USA?
Well-written, well-explained--especially that some kids can have problems, growing up, whether it's depression or substance abuse or ANOREXIA. Now, can someone please annotate it with definitions in American English--and--SOURCES in the USA.(This subject is too important to risk misunderstanding "Brit Speak"!) ... Read more

Product Description
Recovering sufferers of Anorexia Nervosa describe in their own words their personal experiences of this illness, providing not only support for fellow sufferers but also invaluable insights for the families of sufferers and for carers and professionals. In each case the contributors describe:

* the progression of their illness
* the effect on their families
* the treatment they received and its effectiveness
* their perceived reasons for developing the illness
* where they are now. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

I only had one issue with this book
...and that is that when the individuals weight was mentioned it was in measurements not used by the united states, so when I read "8 stone", or "4 and a half stone" any measurement I had no idea what that was equivalent too in the US.I think that if there had been a chart, or just some sort of small reference to the break down of stones to ponds it would have helped in that area.Other than that, its a decent book, quick read, stories are told by the individuals themselves, which I like.If you have an interest in reading about eating disorders, add this to your collection.

Excellent
I really enjoyed this book, and would highly recommend it. Not only is it useful to any sufferers or carers, but it is also an excellent book to educate people whose knowledge on the subject is very little.

The fact that the book is made up of a wide selection of sufferer's personal stories means that a very varied picture of the disease is painted. The editor has ensured that every gender and age is represented here, which helps to highlight the way in which Anorexia can effect many different people. People who are recovered, people who are still suffering, people who had fairly short experiences of the illness and people who had lengthy battles are all shown here.

I can find absolutely nothing to fault with this book. In a word, superb.

not bad, but expected better
I couldn't wait to get this book.I wanted to hear others' insights into their anorexia--I wanted to hear from others going through the same thing I am.It wasn't a bad book.Maybe I would have liked it more if it were one of the first books I read on eating disorders.Maybe now I'm too picky because I've read so many books.I just expected more from this one.It's a good read though, and I don't regret that I read it.It was good to hear from those who have conquered their anorexia as well as those who still battle through recovery.I do recommend that people read it even though I was a bit disappointed.

A different perspective
I think this book is important for ANYBODY involved with anorexia nervosa - not just the victim but also family and friends. The book gives you an incite into how other anorectics feel and think about the disease, and help one to understand the complexities lying behind anorexia. I highlyrecommend this book to read for a general understanding of feelings andemotions as well as a device for recovery. ... Read more

Product Description
"Something changes. It's so sudden it's like a bus has charged down the road and hit me straight in the face. I have a plan. I could lose weight."

All Jasmine Harwood has ever wanted is a true friend, a best friend. But Corisande isn't trustworthy. In fact, sometimes Corisande doesn't act like she wants to be Jasmine's friend at all. With Cori's bullying, almost everyday turns into hell. That is until Jasmine finds an escape...

A dangerous world begins. A world of anorexia and silence. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Needs Work
The beginning of the book moved too quickly at times (which made the book unrealistic) and some things were unclear.

However from the middle of the book on, it became suprisingly profound. If the beginning of the book had been better it would have desearved 4 or 5 stars.

Having an eating disorder myself I was able to identify and be somewhat inspired by the main character. Overall I was to some degree disapointed (especially that the quality of the book didn't match the price when it cost $14.15), but enjoyed reading The Echo Glass.

Realistic approach
I am not a teenager but as I have an interest in anorexia I decided to read this book.

It follows three years of Jasmine's life (as EDd people know, an ED does not come and go in a short period of time). She faces emotional bullying and as a result struggles to deal with life. She then falls into the trap of anorexia without really realising or understanding it.

There are some stunning scenes that had me at the edge of my seat unable to put the book down. It becomes apparent at the end of the novel what `the echo glass' actually stands for (there are various suggestions throughout which makes you think you've worked it out earlier but the real meaning comes later). Once Jasmine understands what the Echo Glass is the way is made clear for a possible step towards recovery. I felt that this was very important. The book realistically deals with an eating disorder and as a result does not have the cliched `happy ending,' (as many are aware these certainly don't occur over night!) The hint of optimism and a possible way forward are apparent but we are never sure if Jasmine takes this route or not (though the ending is far from depressing as we feel Jasmine has a new understanding). What we do know is that she has learnt what it is inside her and that she has the support of true friends.

I feel that this is a very important book and the imagery gives real depth. It is not only realistic in its dealings with eating disorders and bullying but it gives insight into the way that EDd people think. It also dealt with therapy in an interesting and thought-provoking way.

All in all I would recommend this book.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (427)

excellent book, tragic story
This is the tale of an intelligent, thoughtful, considerate young woman who nonetheless falls prey over and over again to her disorder. This book leaves the reader hoping very much that Ms. Hornbacher will be able to turn the massive amount of brainpower that goes into a book as stunningly evocative and effecting as this one to healing her own disorder.

The best book on E.D. out there.

Interesting but way too wordy
I really did like this book but it is SO wordy and I feel like it is too wordy to be a memoir.It is obvious she is very intelligent but it has a little too much fluff for such an intense topic. Plus she definitely contradicts herself a lot which irritates me.

brilliant
This memoir is absolutely spellbinding - the elegant writing and deep-found intelligence of the author make this true story impossible to put down. Particularly for those who have suffered from eating disorders, Hornbacher's brutal honesty and courage in addressing such a taboo issue and emotional state are not only relatable but inspiring - may you find solstice in her words.

Pathological
This book has the feel of someone boasting about just how bad and pathological she was.In reality, she was not recovered and was still in the grips of her eating disordered thoughts and mindset. (Significant personality pathology as well). Warning to those who are easily triggered--this book is not right for you.This book could be useful for professionals wanting to get an "insider" perspective of someone with severe symptoms.However, would not recommend this book for eating disordered sufferers who need to recover.This book would likely set you backwards.

wasted
This book was so very honest that I made my twin sister read it to have some understanding about myED. My own husband did not even know I had an ED for years until I left him a letter on the dinner table one night. I wish I had Marya's Strength. This book can be a trigger and I found myself reading certain parts over and over again just not to feel alone when I was re-living the same habbits of this horrible disease that she was. I like to think That I have recovered and I still pull "Wasted" off the book shelf once on a while and re-read it. I am thankful for Marya's complete honesty no matter how ugly it gets because I was able to just hand this book to my family and give them a sense of understanding. ... Read more

Product Description
The impact of anorexia nervosa on families can be devastating. Daniel Becker combines the innocent recollections of his childhood with the insightful observations of a mature adult in this story of his mother's 30-year obsession with food and her eventual death from anorexia nervosa. He provides an intimate portrayal of how he, his father, and his two brothers each struggled to balance their loyalty to Mom against the increasing awareness that only by separating from her could they ensure their own survival.

Beginning with his earliest memory of her packing a suitcase to leave for the first of many hospitalizations, Daniel must reconcile his love for her with her repeated absences and bizarre behaviors. Part cautionary tale and part exploration of how a person with an eating disorder affects their family members, this biography is valuable reading for individual sufferers, their families, and those who treat them. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

invaluable to the eating disorder literature genre
Most of the reviews already written here on amazon have been very accurate.I just want to add that I thought the perspective of a male child/adolescent/adult perspective of his own mother's anorexia nervosa to be not only enlighting, but very much needed to help readers understand the impact of such an illness on the family.Anorexia is a disease of not just the sufferer but also those who love him/her and it's impact on ones' child is always heart-renching.This book comes from the author's perspective, so it does not delve into the intricate etiology or reasons for his mother's behavior, but it focuses on the results her illness inevitably have on her husband and children.I highly recommend this book to anyone who is affected by this illness.As an anorexic myself, perhaps i did not find this guilt-producing because I am childless, but i do have a family who have been profoundly affected by my illness. Instead of guilt, i felt an understanding after reading this book that people need to think differently about eating disorders and mental illnesses in general and stop the judgmental accusations and realize it is not manipulation or malicious behavior meant to hurt others, however hurt is inevitable to all of whom are affected directly or indirectly by this insidious and baffling illness.

Daughter of Anorexic Mother Who Died
I read this book back in 2007. What I read certainly rings true with my experience as a daughter who at age 10 lost her mother to anorexia when she was 52 years old. Most of the books on anorexia seem to focus on the one with the disease.The impact on the family is devastating. My father, brother and I suffered greatly also. Her disease became the focus of our lives. A therapist once pointed out to me how much control my mother had over our family.This was a new idea to me as I had always perceived her as being weak. My mother was hospitalized several times -- the longest being about 2 years. My brother and I had to be placed in a group home during that time as relatives who had helped out in the past were no longer able to do so. It is true that no amount of reasoning, begging, or angry threats will change the anorexics behavior. In fact, it may aggravate it.The family is left wondering what else to do.I know that today there is a much better understanding of this condition than back in the fifties and I believe new more effective treatment options exist.The family needs help every bit as much as the person with anorexia.Groups like Al-Anon or other recovery groups may be helpful for family members and other loved ones.I've actually come across a group called Eating Disorders Anonymous ([...]).
I've found a Christian recovery group called Celebrate Recovery (based on 12-steps) to be helpful for me.Ultimately, one has to let go of the other person.This is not to say that you sever ties with them or stop loving and caring or that you even stop seeking help (when person is open to it).It just means that you let go of the outcome and recognize your inability to control the other person.The survivor needs to forgive and let go of the anger and focus on their own life and recovery.By the grace of God, I've never suffered from anorexia or any other eating disorder, but have suffered but am well on the way to recovery from toxic effects.

A sad but hopeful tale of a boy growing up in a dysfunctional family...
This is a heartwrenching tale of a young boy whose mother, suffering from a then-rare disease called anorexia, spent literally years institutionalized with her illness.As a result, the author, Daniel, never formed the appropriate bonds with her and other members of his family.The focus was always on his mother and her illness, which no one understood.While I found Daniel's perspective interesting and touching (and often agonizing), I was left wanting to get into the Mother's mind (as much as that would have been possible), and into the heart of her history with anorexia to understand more about why she succumbed to this baffling disease.Luckily, great strides have been made both in psychiatry and in eating disorder treatment since Daniel's mother was in "treatment".While this is a good read for anyone who has a loved one suffering from anorexia, it is frustratingly sparse in any explanations for the etiology of this women's disorder, focusing instead on the devastating effects on the immediate family.If you are an ED sufferer, read with caution...this tale is very guilt-inducing.Although, as one commenter pointed out, guilt in this case may not be such a negative thing.

An Important Contibution to the Literature
Daniel Becker makes an invaluable contribution to the literature regarding families impacted by Anorexia. His is a very readable story that will surely help others tell about their experiences without judgement or blame. This Mean Disease should be on every psychotherapists bookshelf. Neither pathologizing the patient nor the family, Mr. Becker tells the story of a family's ordeal and best efforts to heal.

Recounts the starvation disease's impact not just on his mother, but on his entire family
This memoir of author Daniel Becker's mother, a survivor of anorexia nervosa, recounts the starvation disease's impact not just on his mother, but on his entire family. Throughout his childhood his mother was obsessed with food and the family secret of his mother's disease which influenced the entirely family. From Jewish and family rituals to his mother's feelings about her anorexia, THIS MEAN DISEASE offers a poignant chronicle by another family member other than the usual sufferer - and brings to life many family issues surrounding an anorexic family member.

... Read more

Product Description
Eating disorders–including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating–are among the most painful and difficult illnesses a person can face. Sufferers know firsthand the confusion and agony these illnesses can bring. They also know how it feels to long for hope–and to wonder if victory can ever be achieved.

The truth is, eating disorders affect the whole person. Yet treatments often focus on emotional issues alone. In this powerful book for individuals who suffer from eating disorders and those who love them, Dr. Gregg Jantz fills in the gaps left by traditional treatment programs, tackling not only the emotional, but also the crucial and all-too-often ignored relational, physical, and spiritual dimensions of healing.

Outlining a comprehensive, holistic, and practical approach, Hope, Help, and Healing for Eating Disorders brings spiritual, relational, and physical elements back into the healing process. Described by best-selling author and physician Lendon Smith, author of Feed Your Kids Right, as “the most helpful book on eating disorders there is,” this book will, with God’s help and grace, lead readers out of their bondage to eating disorders and permanently transform lives. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

A Must Read!
This book is a must read for anyone who has been touched by eating disorders! Dr. Jantz walks the reader through the pain and issues, always from a loving, compassionate- and relevant - Christian approach. The reader is guided to greater tools of healing and recovery through this book; the journal and "workbook" aspects of it alone, shine a much needed light of God's love and truth to the individual and to the disorder. It is a must read for those afflicted in any way, as well as for those within the field of eating disorder treatment and recovery!

Great concepts for treating eating disorders
I am aminister that does counseling with individuals struggling with a variety of issues including eating disorders.

Over and over again I find that the issues that Dr. Jantz address in this book are common among those I counsel. Especially the area of unforgiveness. I am convinced that unforgiveness is the #1 root of much mental illness, addictions, and emotional instability.

I really appreciate Dr. Jantz's whole-person approach to the treating of eating disorders. Too many times counselors and treatment facilities only deal with changing behavior and ignore the other areas of a person's life. Based upon my experience, unless all areas of a person's life is addressed they will not experience long term recovery.

Reading teh book you come to understand that Dr. Jantz is interested in more than a person having victory over eating disorders-his goal is for them to become a whole person in all areas of their life.

wasn't as helpful as I thought it would be.
As a woman of God, I looked to this book for hope and faith that one day I'll overcome my eating disorder. I am currently 2 years into recovery from EDNOS.

However, although this book isn't as bad as "the best little girl in the world," I was not pleased. I felt like it was going no where. I didn't really get any answers at all. The continuous repetitive thoughts going through my mind basically read "okay, but... I already knew that... what's next?"

Not worth it!
If you are not a religious person, don't waste your time. Too much God and not enough healing.

Hope, Help, and Healing for Eating Disorders
This book gave me hope and has started to Heal my wounds from the past.The questions written in the book that you ask yourself are tough and do bring up painful memories. However, this is how you begin to heal and learn to forgive so that you can be set free from Anger, Unforgiveness and Shame and guilt.You do what you do to cope for a reason and a way of escape.
I praise God that he has blessed me with this book.
I pray it blesses you too. ... Read more

Product Description
Starting Year 11 is bad enough, what with all the exams and end of year party. But Eloise has to deal with the now. The appointment.

Sixteen year old Eloise Meehan, who has an eating disorder, begins a journey through therapy in an attempt to come to terms with the unspoken family secrets. But as relationships are built, and subsequently broken, it seems as if there are more questions asked than issues resolved.

Will Eloise find the support she crucially needs? And will looking closer to home help her to face her shocking past? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Courtesy of Teens Read Too
Eloise Meehan knows she needs help, but finding just the right person to help is becoming a problem.She is dealing with the accidental death of her brother, the suicide death of her mother, living with her chronically depressed father, and her own eating disorder.Her family doctor referred her to a therapist, but things aren't going well.

Mars bars are Eloise's favorites for binging.She and her friends are preparing for exams.They know their future depends on passing the tests, but their focus is more on the end-of-year party than on study sessions.They've been trying to distract Eloise with shopping for the perfect outfit for the party.They don't seem to see that she has a weight problem.Eloise is sure that people notice how fat she is, and she constantly dreams of her ideal weight.

Visits to the therapist have her obsessing more and more about her weight.At the hospital she sees other girls admitted there as in-patients.She looks at their skeletal frames and protruding bones and envies them.Her weight fluctuates from a high of 46kg to a record low of 39.1kg, and the more she sees these girls, the more she wants to be like them.

As the visits to the therapist continue, it is obvious they are not connecting.When the therapist wants to discuss weight issues, Eloise deflects her, and any attempts to deal with her family tragedy stalls out, as well.Eloise returns to her family doctor in search of someone else.It seems to be a Catch-22 for Eloise.She knows she has a problem, but her overwhelming desire to be thin prevents her from accepting help.

(Since SHRINK was written by an author from the UK, I found myself needing to seek help converting kgs to pounds so I could make sense of Eloise's struggles. I'll provide translation here for any future readers: 46kgs = 101 lbs., and 39.1kgs = 86 lbs.)

SHRINK by Heather Morrall takes readers through a year in the life of 16-year-old Eloise.With a life filled with the pressure to succeed at school while at the same time dealing with two tragic deaths and a father with problems of his own, there is no shortage of issues for readers to relate to.The issue of anorexia is a constant plot element and will have readers wondering if it is a result of Eloise's life tragedies or a legitimate problem of its own.

Reviewed by:Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky" ... Read more

Product Description
A unique eating-disorder memoir written by a mother and daughter.

Unbeknownst to food critic Sheila Himmel-as she reviewed exotic cuisines from bistro to brasserie- her daughter, Lisa, was at home starving herself. Before Sheila fully grasped what was happening, her fourteen-year-old with a thirst for life and a palate for the flavors of Vietnam and Afghanistan was replaced by a weight-obsessed, antisocial, hundredpound nineteen-year-old. From anorexia to bulimia and back again-many times-the Himmels feared for Lisa's life as her disorder took its toll on her physical and emotional well-being.

Hungry is the first memoir to connect eating disorders with a food-obsessed culture in a very personal way, following the stumbles, the heartbreaks, and even the funny moments as a mother-daughter relationship-and an entire family-struggles toward healing. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Honest, compeling, first-hand and engrossing story on a complex illness
"HUNGRY covers a deadly and serious topic in a poignant story that addresses the irony of our culture's obsession with food. Sheila Himmel brings her talent as a journalist and food critic to show intimately how this disorder took over her family's life for the eight years that daughter Lisa suffered from a spectrum of disordered eating--from anorexia to bulimia to anorexia.As Sheila notes, `eating disorders function like addictions, but no you can't `just say no' to food, especially in our culture where...America is a 24-hour buffet.'The Himmels bravely share their ups and downs, with honesty and sometimes even humor. Mother and daughter both learned a lot during the recovery process and report on helpful resources they found along the way. I love that the book ends with an optimistic tone and their two lists on 10 Things we learned about eating disorders. Having read many books on this topics,I highly recommend "Hungry" as one of the best first-hand and easy-to-ready mother/daughter accounts of a complex illness that will provide comfort, insight, and support for anyone struggling with or affected by an eating disorder."

--Janice Bremis, Executive Director, Eating Disorders Resource Center

We Are All Hungry for Love
Hungry: A Mother and Daughter Fight Anorexia is truly a tour de force...a daring that is beyond what one could have dreamt of when I was suffering from anorexia twenty years ago. I know Sheila Himmel's work through her writing as a food critic, her outreach support for parents and teenagers coping with anorexia and bulimia, and personal interviews; all in addition to this collaborative and rather revolutionary book written with her daughter, Lisa.

The daring of this prolific writer and budding literary daughter (from what the text promises) is a breath of fresh air for the mother and/or daughter confronted with such suffering. Beyond that - and outside of the scope of the starving, purging, and all of the outward manifestations of the illness that one will likely gain new insights into - the book stands out in its own right as a loving exploration of mind and spirit for both mother and daughter who are willing to expose the painful stages of growing up... together.

Inspiration for my own website created in order to help mothers dealing with teenage anorexia, the wisdom of Sheila and the insights of her daughter insure that my own assessments of the disease and possibilities for recovery and life after starvation remain true to life. The book is triumphant - a must read for mothers, daughters, clinicians and anyone who believes that pain can be the touchstone for growth, new relationships and new beginnings.

Written by Kim Bistrong, host [...]
Visit my site to hear Sheila in her own words.

Eating away the family
Without a doubt, _Hungry_ shows how eating disorders are truly family affairs.A fascinating and compelling read, the book primarily offers a mother's-eye-view of the devastation her daughter's eating disorders inflict on the family. Of course, it's easy to be an armchair therapist when reading this book and cringe at some of the decisions, comments, and interpretations mother Shiela made while dealing with daughter Lisa's eating disorders. But, to do so would take away the value of what the book truly has to offer: an honest portrayal of a mother who does the very best she can in the face of feeling helpless, ineffective, andoverwhelmed as her daughter sinks into the depths of anorexia and bulimia. Although this book may not be the best for offering objective and non-biased information about eating disorder treatment approaches, it provides families, friends, and sufferers of eating disorders what may ultimately be the most healing-- the reassurance that they are not alone in their inevitable frustration, confusion, and despair...and, the hope that beneath all of the darkness is light struggling to break free.

powerful and moving story
I am so impressed with Sheila and Lisa Himmel's book, Hungry! They tell their own story honestly and with great willingness to explore the challenges of an eating disorder. They make their story relevant for others -- I know so many families struggling with anorexia and bulemia. Hungry is beautifully written -- smart, revealing, sometimes even funny. I most highly recommend this book!

False Advertising
This book should really be titled " Sheila Himmel's Illustrious Career and how her obsession with it created her daughter's sense of alienation".Lest you think I am generally one to judge, I need to tell you that I run a peer-to-peer support group, at no charge, for parents whose teens are in therapeutic boarding schools.By simple objective standards, if you count the pages talking about Sheila's career, and compare that to the number of pages spent talking about her daughter's issues, you'll quickly understand what I mean.The comment that upset me the most was Sheila's revelation of the small dress size she wore when she attended the James Beard Award ceremonies.It stands as a stark indictment of her repeated claims that she didn't obsess about appearance.During the book she repeatedly talks about Lisa's behavior during Sheila's job-related forays into eating out.Where are the pages about this family doing ANYTHING not food related?Never a trip to the movies, the beach, or simply a quiet night of playing board games or reading together as a family.When there is a choice between supporting LIsa and advancing her career, by her own admission Sheila chooses career every time, then justifies it in her book.I have read outstanding books written by parents who really cared and really shared what they went through when their teen's life fell apart.For an excellent Mother-Daughter book, this one dealing with drug and alcohol addiction, read Kritsina Wandzliak and Constance Curry's book The Lost Years.Or tryBeautiful Boy, David Sheff's poignant story of his teen son's meth addiction.
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Product Description
Self-Help/Women's Health

Acclaim for Peggy Claude-Pierre's
The Secret Language of Eating Disorders

"Peggy Claude-Pierre has gone beyond the surface of eating disorders to discover their true causes and then present a valid and healing path. In this extremely constructive book, she offers incredible insights into the mind of the sufferer and the myths of eating disorders."--Keith J. Karren, Ph.D.,
Department Chair, Health Sciences,
Brigham Young University

"Peggy Claude-Pierre is a warrior--ferocious and relentless--whose work has rescued a decade of sufferers."--Edward Feller, M.D., F.A.C.P.,
Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine,
Brown University School of Medicine

"Peggy Claude-Pierre has created a paradigm shift in the way we view and treat anorexia. Peggy has shifted the focus of care from that of controlling the symptoms of disordered eating to healing the negativity that would otherwise plague the individual for the rest of his or her life. I have developed the utmost respect for her, for I realize that she has translated the secret language of anorexia. Now it is up to us to use the knowledge she has revealed."
--Daniel J. Smith, M.D.

"Peggy Claude-Pierre's work begins where attachment to the limiting obstacles of theory end. She has brought back from the dead many young lives the world deemed hopeless. . . . There are many who possess the title of 'doctor' who have never come close to her incredible example of the selfless healer."
--Craig T. Pratt, M.D.,
Chief, Division of Addiction Medicine,
Grant-Riverside Methodist HospitalAmazon.com Review
What makes Claude-Pierre's treatment of anorexia and bulimiarevolutionary? Perhaps it's that the astonishingly high success rateof even the most chronic cases at Claude-Pierre's Montreux Clinic(only sufferers near death who have not been helped by doctors andhospitals are admitted) defies the common misconception that eatingdisorders are incurable. Claude-Pierre has made a personal commitmentto dispel this damaging myth. Having cured her own two daughters ofanorexia, you might say hers was a vested interest. The SecretLanguage of Eating Disorders reveals the details ofClaude-Pierre's unique program.

Myths and misconceptions haveshaped conventional treatment of anorexia and bulimia, leading to acycle of hopelessness for those who suffer. Claude-Pierre's workreveals that victims share a common feeling of self-contempt. Further,she asserts that these overwhelming feelings of worthlessness areestablished at birth and slowly erode the healthy self. Therevolutionary aspect of Claude-Pierre's program stems from herconviction that this negative mindset can be completely reversed.

The book describes the five stages of recovery, discusses thechallenges peculiar to working with them at home, and presents a planfor working with health professionals. Also offered are stories offormer Montreux patients, adding insight and depth to understandingthese disorders. The book and the program have already saved manylives and will continue to do so. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (59)

Some important info is missing, and she takes credit for discovering a classic concept
I found this book to be quite helpful in explaining the Negative and Actual minds of the ED sufferer. However, I also feel that Peggy takes credit for her dazzling discovery of what is actually a classic concept in psychology: cognitive self-talk. Her tendency to anthropomorphize this self-talk (complete with its own name, gender, personality, tactics, and rituals) doesn't make it any more innovative than what CBT therapists have always known: that sufferers of ED tend to negatively filter incoming stimuli and engage in exaggerated attacks against themselves using aggressive and cruel self-talk. Okay, so she's validated decades of research; where does that leave the reader?

Well, once Peggy has finished complimenting herself for this rediscovery, she makes an important contribution in her ability to EXPLAIN this conventional (and old chestnut) concept very, very clearly. For a lay-person looking to understand the role of self-talk and how to thwart it, Peggy's book may be the ticket: she didn't pioneer the concept, perhaps, but she illustrates it well. And she also does a remarkable job empowering families not to passively accept doom-and-gloom prognoses from jaded or unskilled doctors.

Having said that, here are some problems I see in her book:
1) She never even uses the word "Serotonin" in the entire book, despite mountains of emerging evidence that Anorectic sufferes have a very specific flaw in their serotonin system that causes a paradoxic "anxiety effect" with serotonin increases, causing the sufferer to starve down these levels.

2) The discussion of treatment is centered around children. She uses the noun "child" to describe her patients in treatment, which may alienate the reader who is concerned with an adult sufferer.

3) The discussion of treatment tends to be an infomercial for her center, which isn't very helpful to the reader because it costs $1000/day and has a fifteen-year waiting list, according to information online as of today (July 17, 2008).

4) She is experienced working with ED, but other than an early reference in the book to her intention of getting her Doctorate, she never returns to the topic of clinical qualifications--hers or her staff's--except to assure the reader that they are trained and competent.

5) Unless the family of an ED sufferer is prepared (and wealthy enough) to admit the victim to inpatient treatment for up to two years, there is little-to-no information about options for the rest of us. You know, the ones who make "regular" incomes. The ones who need to make efforts in outpatient settings. There is no advice, for example, to therapists (such as myself, an LCSW) who read the book about steps WE can take to implement strategies that work. The gist of her writing seems to be: Here are mistakes therapists and doctors tend to make, and this, therefore, is why my inpatient approach is pretty much your best hope.

If You're Struggling and Need Help...
Are you seeking an answer?

Though this Book isn't a "cure all", it does answer some questions you may have. Questions such as:

"Why do I/my daughter/my son/my wife hate herself?"
"What can I do to help myself (or him/her)?"
"What have others done that may apply to me (or him/her)?"
"What methods/actions should I take to help my/their future?"
etc etc...

This book is pretty big (not huge) but it's pact full of useful information. Peggy even shares information of the many rehabilitation center's she has set up in and around the country and shares success stories of her own patients (without disclosing their names).

Having gone through this struggle myself in High School (when I bought the book), and even re-reading this book to date - it still sits on my shelf where it will remain because it IS useful. It does give life-changing information that WILL help you.

If you have a question about eating disorders, it has the answer. :)

Absolutely Insightful
Working on recovery of my own, I found this book wonderfully validating and insightful.I never knew that others had the same thoughts that consumed my mind and not only did this book show me that others were out there, it showed me there were people in this world who not only understood those girls but who even loved those girls unconditionally.

Although unable to finish the book since I am unable to deem myself somehow worthy of ridding myself of this ED, I have shared it with those closest with me to try to help them understand where I am coming from and what I am struggling with.

I know others bash this author for not having formal training - but no matter what I say she has absolutly amazing insight into the Eating Didsordered mind.

A friend to the isolated
I found this book a light in the dark.Claude-Pierre writes with extreme sensitivity and empathy on a killer disease which in fact kills because its victims are so sensitive.She manages to articulate on what others seem to miss i.e. that anorexia is not merely about feeling fat, or having a distorted body image but correctly identifies the 'other voice' as being the real poison within the sufferer.This book gave me the strength to get well and I know that other sufferers will find in it a source of real help and comfort.Words alone cannot praise this book enough.Suffers and non-sufferers alike must read it.

The Secrets Exposed
Author Claude-Pierre explains in layman's terms the mechanics of eating disorders. This greatly helped me to understand the mindset of the sufferer and seriousness of these types of disorders. The book offers a through explanation of symptoms, who is at risk, treatment, advice and support to family and friends of sufferers. In addition, there are some excellent references for reading materials and websites for help and support. ... Read more

Product Description
A concise account of the insight into the life of a victim of anorexia and their supporting family. The book aims to provide some understanding on the entire heart ache and torment for the anorexic’s family.It also enlightens people to the twisted, yet frustrated turmoil of the thoughts and emotions of the anorexic’s muddled brain.

Looking back over those frustrating years it is hard to accept that something that most people find enjoyable, sociable as well as being essential for the survival of the human well-being could be so traumatic to an individual.The restrictions that an individual inflicts upon themselves, not only affects their own well-being but the interactions of social behaviour in almost all aspects of their life.

This can be associated with family voids for those families eating together at meal times, to family meal social events.It does not stop there, but has a knock on effect with all those individuals that surround you through every day life such as school, work and university.As the anorexic becomes more obsessed withtheir eating disorder, the quicker the rumours begin to spread about how the individual is not eating as much as normal.Those individuals dearest to the individual begin to observe the change in mood swings, the constant self distraction, vagueness and self isolation of the anorexic from the environment.The comments or murmurs about weight loss, which are all too true, the anorexic chooses to ignore.

I would hope that this account will provide some encouragement for all concerned, both the anorexic and all of the individuals associated with the anorexic. Hopefully, it will prove that with some determination, positive attitude and self belief from the individual anorexic, that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

I almost feel terribly embarrassed to share with others this explicit account, to the extent that I have thought on several occasions as to whether I should include all of the very explanatory text that I have done in this account of my journey through anorexia. However, I have included all of the graphic details on everything that I did during those terrible years, as I feel that only a true understanding of inside an anorexic’s head can be achieved in this way.


... Read more