Book Review ♡ 45 Pounds (More or Less) by K.A. Barson

Bringing a short and sweet review today for a short little read I found while browsing Amazon last night. 45 Pounds (More or Less) is a self-identity discovery novel following Ann as she attempts to lose the weight that her family tease her for. Though I had some initial apprehension about this book, it was an enjoyable little read.

I have always been the fat girl. As I grew up and ventured out into the world, it was increasingly clear that I was not like everyone else. The bullying and the anxiety that comes with fitting into the ‘fat girl’ stereotype can be a lot to handle, so I was able to empathise with Ann Galardi, protagonist of 45 Pounds (More of Less). The book is fantastic coming-of-age novel which follows Ann as she navigates weight loss, friendship and family issues. It’s a book I was shocked to see had less than 1,000 reviews on Goodreads, because its the kind of book I would love to see discussed at youth book clubs and in schools.

Usually the portrayal of people who don’t quite fit the mould due to their size can be poorly handled. I find it hard to think of books which include a bigger character as the lead, and those that have are rarely successes. I feel like being big is considered wrong – after all, plus size women are still subject to media persecution. Plus size men are portrayed as disgusting. Being ‘overweight’ in Western society is seen as the epitome of being a loser. Some moments in the story seemed a little out-of-touch with the message, but it was understandable why there was such a heavy fascination with quick-fix methods of weight loss. The book also touched on eating disorders and showed that some people can struggle with their eating and body images no matter their shapes and sizes.

At times, I struggled with Ann’s character. I could relate to her a lot – I know how hard it can be going shopping for clothes and the disgust and humiliation you feel handing back something that doesn’t fit at all. I know what it’s like to wonder if a guy is interested in me, only to learn they were simply being nice. I’ve forced myself to endure countless fat jokes and sneered remarks at my expense. So I could completely understand why Ann had such a hard time accepting the body she came in. Yet at times, she seemed to be a little spiteful or rude – perhaps a ruse to cover her own feelings. Regardless, as the book progressed I felt like she grew a considerable amount. As well as accepting herself, she began to understand her own self worth and become a lot more accepting of others.

Though I had expected a slightly different type of ending, I really enjoyed the resolution at the end of the story. It really tied the book together and helped drilled home the message that no matter who you are, or what you look like, you can achieve your own happiness if you allow it.