Overweight Teenagers: Don't Bear the Burden Alone

Stephanie Zvirin

LeBow, director of a Canadian obesity clinic, aims his book at teens who are obese, not simply "pleasantly plump" or "heavy," but most weight-conscious young adults can profit from his sensible advice. Because he understands the stereotypes and the cycle of ridicule and self-hate that often accompanies obesity, LeBow ministers to the psyche as well as the appetite, as he talks about everything from setting goals, drafting a contract, and recording progress to keeping the weight off once it's gone. There's even a chapter designed to help parents help their kids. Readers will need to look elsewhere for actual food plans (though "LeBow does include a few useful charts), but this is still a good resource for YAs who are serious about losing weight and want to do it safely.

Booknews

Speaks frankly to teenagers about confronting overweight, looking at issues including verbal abuse, self-esteem, and health risks in later life. Advocates sensible weight control methods such as recording daily diet, contracts, and using positive thinking, and explains psychological aspects of overweight and dieting. Includes chapters for parents and professionals, and appendices on calories of common foods and growth percentiles. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)