Quick Take

Critically acclaimed for Girl Culture and Fast Forward, Lauren Greenfield continues her exploration of contemporary female culture with Thin, a groundbreaking book about eating disorders. Greenfield's photographs are paired with extensive interviews and journal entries from twenty girls and women who are suffering from various afflictions. We meet 15-year-old Brittany, who is convinced that being thin is the only way to gain acceptance among her peers; Alisa, a divorced mother of two whose hatred of her body is manifested in her relentless compulsion to purge; Shelly, who has been battling anorexia for six years and has had a feeding tube surgically implanted in her stomach; as well as many others. Alongside these personal stories are essays on the sociology and science of eating disorders by renowned researchers Joan Jacobs Brumberg, Dr. David Herzog, and Dr. Michael Strober. These intimate photographs, frank voices, and thoughtful discussions combine to make Thin not only the first book of its kind but also a portrait of profound understanding.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Thin

Introduction

"Thin" by Lauren Greenfield is a groundbreaking book that delves into the world of eating disorders. Through stunning photographs, personal stories, and expert insights, Greenfield explores the complexities of anorexia and other eating disorders. The book features interviews and journal entries from twenty girls and women who are struggling with various afflictions, providing readers with a glimpse into their daily lives, thoughts, and experiences.

About Lauren Greenfield

Lauren Greenfield is an accomplished artist, documentary photographer, and filmmaker. With a background in photography and a passion for exploring contemporary issues, Greenfield has published three photographic monographs and directed four documentary films. Her work has been exhibited in museums and featured in various publications. Greenfield's ability to capture the essence of her subjects through her lens has earned her a reputation as a talented and insightful storyteller.

Analysis of Views

Powerful and Devastating: Many readers found "Thin" to be a powerful and devastating book that sheds light on the struggles of individuals suffering from eating disorders. The book's intimate portrayal of the girls' journeys resonated deeply with readers, evoking empathy and understanding.
Realistic and Authentic: The personal stories and journal entries featured in the book were praised for their authenticity. Readers felt that the girls' voices were genuine and reflected the complexities of the eating disorder experience. The photographs, combined with the first-person accounts, added depth and credibility to the narrative.
Eye-Opening: The book was described as eye-opening, shedding light on the horrors of eating disorders that readers may not have been aware of before. The portrayal of the girls' suffering, including their physical and emotional struggles, left readers with a newfound understanding of the severity of these conditions.
Important Message: Several readers felt that the book conveyed an important message about body image, self-confidence, and the societal pressures that contribute to eating disorders. They appreciated the way in which Greenfield highlighted the need for acceptance and self-love, emphasizing that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
Tragic Reality: Some readers were struck by the tragic reality of the book. The fact that many of the women featured in the book were unable to afford treatment due to insurance limitations was a source of concern. The high cost of treatment was seen as a significant barrier to recovery, highlighting the urgent need for accessible care for those struggling with eating disorders.

Reasons for Recommendation

Insightful Perspective: Readers recommended "Thin" for its insightful perspective on eating disorders. The book provided a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in these conditions, allowing readers to gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by those affected.
Compelling Storytelling: The compelling storytelling in "Thin" was highly praised by readers. The personal stories and journal entries presented in the book were engaging and kept readers invested in the narrative. The combination of photography and text created a powerful visual experience that resonated with readers on a profound level.
Empathy and Understanding: Many readers recommended "Thin" for its ability to evoke empathy and understanding towards individuals struggling with eating disorders. The book provided a window into their lives, allowing readers to gain insight into their struggles and challenges. This empathetic approach was seen as an important aspect of promoting awareness and support for those affected by these conditions.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Sensitive Topic: Some readers expressed reservations about recommending "Thin" due to its sensitive nature. Eating disorders are complex and often triggering topics, and some individuals may find the content of the book distressing or triggering. It is important to consider individual sensitivities when recommending this book.
Limited Focus: A few readers felt that "Thin" had a limited focus on certain aspects of eating disorders. While the book provided valuable insights into the experiences of individual girls, some felt that it did not delve deeply enough into broader societal factors that contribute to these conditions. They felt that a broader exploration would have added depth to the narrative.

Conclusion

"Thin" by Lauren Greenfield is a powerful and thought-provoking book that offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of individuals struggling with eating disorders. Through stunning photographs, personal stories, and expert insights, Greenfield sheds light on the complexities of these conditions and highlights the need for acceptance, self-love, and accessible treatment options. While some readers found the book triggering or limited in scope, many praised its insightful perspective, compelling storytelling, and ability to evoke empathy towards those affected by eating disorders. Overall, "Thin" serves as a valuable contribution to the conversation around body image, self-confidence, and mental health, offering readers a deeper understanding of this often misunderstood topic.