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The Sunday Lunchers #1
Skinniness is Next to Goddessness? Lacey's Story
In the wake of her parents ugly divorce, Lacey Steele is forced to choose to stay with her dad in the home she loves or to move to California with the woman who has never had time or patience for Lacey, otherwise known as her mother. When Charity, Lacey's sister, choses their dad and home, Lacey knows she has to side with her lonely mother.
Yet, four years later, after having no contact with the father or sister she left behind, Lacey is sent back to them when her mother decides to get remarried. Moving back to a household that used to be filled with love (it's now icy cold) and finding her ten-year crush has found his way into the arm's of Lacey's sister, are the last straws of many. Lacey decides it's time to stand up for herself and take matters into her own hands. Everything would be fixed if only she were thinner and fit into the mold both her mother and sister had perfected.
With her friend Ashley, they create the Future Goddess Girls Club. All it will take to lose the future? Drop the extra pounds plaguing them. Extreme calorie cutting may be a bit much, but no one would actually get hurt, would they?
Skinniness is Next to Goddessness? Lacey's Story takes on a dark subject in a brighter manner combining the difficulties of body image and eating disorders with hope, love, and eventual acceptance.
Book 1 in the Skinniness is Next to Goddessness? Series.
This book does not contain explicit language or sex.
The Goddessness? books are stand-alone and can be read in any order, but each contain mild spoilers for any previous books in the Goddessness? series.
Suggested reading order for the Skinniness is Next to Goddessness? series:
Lacey's Story
Anna's Story
Jamie's Story
Tina's Story
Yet, four years later, after having no contact with the father or sister she left behind, Lacey is sent back to them when her mother decides to get remarried. Moving back to a household that used to be filled with love (it's now icy cold) and finding her ten-year crush has found his way into the arm's of Lacey's sister, are the last straws of many. Lacey decides it's time to stand up for herself and take matters into her own hands. Everything would be fixed if only she were thinner and fit into the mold both her mother and sister had perfected.
With her friend Ashley, they create the Future Goddess Girls Club. All it will take to lose the future? Drop the extra pounds plaguing them. Extreme calorie cutting may be a bit much, but no one would actually get hurt, would they?
Skinniness is Next to Goddessness? Lacey's Story takes on a dark subject in a brighter manner combining the difficulties of body image and eating disorders with hope, love, and eventual acceptance.
Book 1 in the Skinniness is Next to Goddessness? Series.
This book does not contain explicit language or sex.
The Goddessness? books are stand-alone and can be read in any order, but each contain mild spoilers for any previous books in the Goddessness? series.
Suggested reading order for the Skinniness is Next to Goddessness? series:
Lacey's Story
Anna's Story
Jamie's Story
Tina's Story
258 pages, Paperback
First published February 2, 2015
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1161 people want to read
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May 26, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/26/2019)! 🎁
July 20, 2018
Whoa! This book’s description and the way it is marketed are waaaaayyy off! I cried buckets throughout this story and it rung me out to the point of thinking I needed an antidepressant. Extremely well written and somewhat similar in style to Kelly Oram, this book deals with very heavy issues (no pun intended). It is a clean romance but readers should have a box of tissues handy! I thought it was excellent but I’m not sure my heart could take another story like it so I probably won’t read the next in the series. Fabulous read, though.
October 28, 2018
Heart Wrenching
This story is about self-identity and friendship. It also has a romance in it, but it was definitely not as prominent as the rest. I connected with the main character, Lacey, and her feelings of self loathing. It is something that many teens face, but many adults continue to struggle with it way out of their teenage years.
This book is sad. Horrible sad and haunting. I can't imagine it could have been written any other way though. I am not sure I can face the next book in the series right now. Too many feels already. I will definitely get back to it though. This author is really special.
Undoubtedly 5 stars!
This story is about self-identity and friendship. It also has a romance in it, but it was definitely not as prominent as the rest. I connected with the main character, Lacey, and her feelings of self loathing. It is something that many teens face, but many adults continue to struggle with it way out of their teenage years.
This book is sad. Horrible sad and haunting. I can't imagine it could have been written any other way though. I am not sure I can face the next book in the series right now. Too many feels already. I will definitely get back to it though. This author is really special.
Undoubtedly 5 stars!
December 21, 2018
A Bit of Heartbreak
This book will transport you right back to high school. All those feelings of uncertainty and low self esteem while comparing yourself to others were on full display. The mean girls, the parties. . . There was a lot of emotional content in this book. Hard issues that a lot of girls face. My heart broke for Lacey so many times. Her happy ending felt extra satisfying.
This book will transport you right back to high school. All those feelings of uncertainty and low self esteem while comparing yourself to others were on full display. The mean girls, the parties. . . There was a lot of emotional content in this book. Hard issues that a lot of girls face. My heart broke for Lacey so many times. Her happy ending felt extra satisfying.
May 31, 2016
Free ebook in an exchange for an honest review.
"You're right. Your plan of pushing the guy you are madly in love with at any other female is much better."
The story revolves around a girl called Lacey, who gets shipped back to her father in Woodlands after her mother decides to remarry. Through this book we follow Lacey and her eating disorder as much as her family relationships, friendships and her love life.
There are so many positive things I would like to say about this book that I don't know where to start.
The storyline and the writing style were great. I really appreciate the way that the writer talked about the eating disorders and brought light to the topic. I also liked that we saw Laceys' entire life and the way that the eating disorder affected her and her life. The writing style was simple and easy to read and the book itself was really interesting. When it comes to the characters, I really enjoyed them (from Lacey and Tuck to Shauna and the Sunday Lunchers). Every character felt real and understandable with their flaws and virtues (I especially loved Tuck and his relationship with Lacey). Character development was obvious in Lacey and I really liked her and cared about her.
Also the plot twists were so unexpected and the story wasn't as predictable as I thought it would be.
To sum it up, I absolutely loved this book and I think that the writer did a great job dealing with the subject of eating disorders. I would definitely recommend this book and I am planning to read the rest of the girls' stories.
"You're right. Your plan of pushing the guy you are madly in love with at any other female is much better."
The story revolves around a girl called Lacey, who gets shipped back to her father in Woodlands after her mother decides to remarry. Through this book we follow Lacey and her eating disorder as much as her family relationships, friendships and her love life.
There are so many positive things I would like to say about this book that I don't know where to start.
The storyline and the writing style were great. I really appreciate the way that the writer talked about the eating disorders and brought light to the topic. I also liked that we saw Laceys' entire life and the way that the eating disorder affected her and her life. The writing style was simple and easy to read and the book itself was really interesting. When it comes to the characters, I really enjoyed them (from Lacey and Tuck to Shauna and the Sunday Lunchers). Every character felt real and understandable with their flaws and virtues (I especially loved Tuck and his relationship with Lacey). Character development was obvious in Lacey and I really liked her and cared about her.
Also the plot twists were so unexpected and the story wasn't as predictable as I thought it would be.
To sum it up, I absolutely loved this book and I think that the writer did a great job dealing with the subject of eating disorders. I would definitely recommend this book and I am planning to read the rest of the girls' stories.
June 3, 2015
Skinniness is Next to Goddessness tackles a deep, dark subject in a sensitive and also entertaining way. Julia Keanini has an amazing writing style that brings her relatable characters to life in a believable way. I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories that keep you thinking a long time after the book has finished. 5 stars easily deserved.
February 4, 2019
...it was okay?
The Shy Girl and the Football Star is about Lacey and Tuck. They are friends to lovers kind of high school romance.. but they go through a ton of dramatic bullshit. Okay, so Lacey is deemed fat by society basically. She was living with her mom in Cali.. but then was force to go back to her hometown to live with her dad. Once she's back, it's like everyone and their mother is bringing her down because of her weight.
I probably rolled my eyes throughout the entire book. I thought Lacey and Tuck were cute.. but the reason for him to date all these girls so people would back off of Lacey made zero sense. He obviously had a crush on him.. and vice versa, so I just didn't get it. Then Lacey basically stops eating food, unless it's dinner because of the whole calorie counting thing, and she loses a ton of weight. Super quickly and not really healthy for her. She wasn't doing this thing alone though, but her friend died from it. Which definitely caused some drama in her family and with herself.
A lot of things were emotional in this book, like in a good way. I just hated being frustrated or annoyed with characters or the storyline in general. Weight issues and self-esteem are huge factors for kids growing up - so it doesn't help when you are constantly put down by family members or even friends. I could see the toll that it took on her and her friends - so I got a wee bit emotional from time to time.
Other than that, the romance was okay. Nothing really stuck out to me or made me love anyone. It was a cute book that just ended up annoying me from time to time.
The Shy Girl and the Football Star is about Lacey and Tuck. They are friends to lovers kind of high school romance.. but they go through a ton of dramatic bullshit. Okay, so Lacey is deemed fat by society basically. She was living with her mom in Cali.. but then was force to go back to her hometown to live with her dad. Once she's back, it's like everyone and their mother is bringing her down because of her weight.
I probably rolled my eyes throughout the entire book. I thought Lacey and Tuck were cute.. but the reason for him to date all these girls so people would back off of Lacey made zero sense. He obviously had a crush on him.. and vice versa, so I just didn't get it. Then Lacey basically stops eating food, unless it's dinner because of the whole calorie counting thing, and she loses a ton of weight. Super quickly and not really healthy for her. She wasn't doing this thing alone though, but her friend died from it. Which definitely caused some drama in her family and with herself.
A lot of things were emotional in this book, like in a good way. I just hated being frustrated or annoyed with characters or the storyline in general. Weight issues and self-esteem are huge factors for kids growing up - so it doesn't help when you are constantly put down by family members or even friends. I could see the toll that it took on her and her friends - so I got a wee bit emotional from time to time.
Other than that, the romance was okay. Nothing really stuck out to me or made me love anyone. It was a cute book that just ended up annoying me from time to time.
April 11, 2016
I really liked this book. It was a real page turner for me. It tackled a difficult topic that plagues more people than I think admit it. It brought attention to the different types of eating disorders other than just the more common types. Some parts were difficult to read just because of how much emotion it evoked. As I read, it took me back to my high school days, with all the pettiness and just plain meanness that can come from the insecurities at that age. I appreciated the fact that Lacey's dad got more involved and really tried when it came down to it. With not being around very much throughout her life, I'm sure it was hard for him to put his foot down and I'm sure it was difficult for Lacey to accept his new rules. I was glad to see that he didn't just try to turn a blink eye to what was happening and ignore it and think it would get better. I was also glad that he sought professional help because he knew she needed more than he could give her. The thing that frustrated me though was Lacey's relationship with Tuck. Spoiler Alert!!!! I really wish that Tuck would have been more open with Lacey and they could have avoided all the heartache they went through. I understand that that is how high school really is, you're scared to put yourself out there and Lacey probably wouldn't have listened or believed him if he told her anyway just because of how she felt about herself. I do wish that the end was different. I'm glad they ended up together, but I wish they would have discussed all the things that she had gone through. I felt that that would have really helped both of them. If she had come out and told him, then given him the chance to be there for her, or if he had heard when she talked to her mom and told her everything, then he could have had the chance to again be there for her and know what she struggled with. He wanted to be a part of her life and protect her and support her, and she wouldn't let him. I really liked how Lacey's friends were always there for her especially when she needed them the most. They didn't care what other people thought about them and really cared about each other.
May 10, 2016
As a person that has struggled with eating disorder’s, I always appreciate books that show the true reality of what life is like living with an eating disorder. I love that Keanini did not make anorexia glamorous and an easy solution for weight loss. The actual reality of anorexia is painful, scary and dangerous, and Skinniness is Next To Goddessness depicts Lacey and Ashley experiencing this disorder in a true to life fashion. I feel that every young person, male or female, should read this book and see the ugly truth of eating disorders. It is so easy to fall into bad habits and patterns that can destroy us, and this story is a reminder that anyone can become a victim. Well done Julia Keanini, and thank you for being open and honest with this topic that is often made glamorous and exciting to our youth! I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
September 15, 2015
Just laughed and cried my way through this book. It felt so real that I wanted to climb into the pages and give Lacey and Ash hugs. It's such a lifelike combination of real issues not being given enough attention as the teenage characters also get bogged down with the usual stuff like school, friendships, family, mean girls and boyfriends. Teens really do deal with a lot and this book doesn't gloss over some of the tougher issues. Though her homelife situation was not your everyday sort of thing! It's cleverly written because I think that so many young (and older) people will relate to Lacey's feelings. She's lovely and she cares about her friends, but like any typical teen she also obsesses about herself. Her friendship with Tuck was frustrating, but this book is very much a love story.
May 23, 2016
I really enjoyed the friendships and high school romances in this novel. It does show how easy it is for the teens in our life to fall into the mindset that they do not have an eating problem because they are eating. It's when things get really serious that they are made to stop and think. Sometimes even this is not enough. The peer pressure to maintain a certain image contributes to this way of thinking. The support group scenarios is a great addition and hopefully something that will inspire people reading this book to seek out the he they need to change the pattern. Great novel I highly recommend for teens and young adults. I received this novel in exchange for an honest and fair review.
May 23, 2016
This book made me laugh, cry, and everything in between. This was the first novel I’ve read by this author and I couldn’t put it down. It took me less than a day to read through it. She did a fantastic job of bringing real-life struggles to the forefront while also bringing in solutions and ways to help others.
I remember all too well what it was like going to high school and dealing with other girls and all their drama. Girls can be mean and vicious, especially if you have the attention of someone they want. Weight is an ever increasing battle with all women. Most are not happy with themselves – even the size twos. We have to learn to love ourselves and help each other through bad times.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
I remember all too well what it was like going to high school and dealing with other girls and all their drama. Girls can be mean and vicious, especially if you have the attention of someone they want. Weight is an ever increasing battle with all women. Most are not happy with themselves – even the size twos. We have to learn to love ourselves and help each other through bad times.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 24, 2016
This is a heartwarming and heartbreaking story. Lacey is an amazingly sweet teenager who stands up for the underdog no matter the cost. Her experience with her peers and her family life has made her feel like the unwanted fat girl. She can't see what an amazing girl she is. She can only see the unwanted fat. A bad case of the stomach helps her lose some weight and the reaction of others takes her down the road of an eating disorder. The friendship between Tuck and Lacey is frustrating at times but ultimately heartwarming. The horrible words that are said about Lacey and others like her is heartbreaking. This story tackles a tough subject but does it beautifully. I highly recommend this book.
July 8, 2016
The book is very well written and brought me to tears many times. It deals with a lot of serious issues and highlights the negative consequences if these issues are not dealt with. By putting it in a work of fiction Julia Keanini has brought us a good read as well as informing us about a serious issue. The book also has many funny moments and is a good read for any teenager. I stumbled on this book by accident and thank that day for allowing me to find this series. I give this book a 4.5/5 as it was a very enjoyable book and left me wanting more.
November 13, 2015
Totally appreciated the way Keanini approached eating disorder. It is a worthwhile read for young girls. I have not read other books in the series, but they are on my list. An asside, Julia, is a former student of mine. Unfortunately, it was so many years ago I can take no credit for her achievement. I am extremely proud of her.
August 4, 2015
This book was so good. It is one of the best books I have ever read. I loved it so much. I feel this book describes one of the problems we have in society about hiding people by what they look like on the outside.
March 7, 2015
Holy crap! I did not see that coming! A MUST read! Absolutely loved it!
January 14, 2019
3.5 stars.
This was the main clip from the synopsis: A story of friendship, family, tragedy, and most of all romance.
I would say all of the above is true with the exception of "most of all romance." To me romance or might I say "girlfriend/boyfriend relationship(s)" was really background noise. I read this story as an individual who has a crush on her best friend but to her - she would never be good enough b/c
she viewed herself as an overweight girl with low self esteem that didn't have much moral support from her mom, sister and not really her dad.
I would say an ok book; just a little heavy.. and i was looking for something more light... Especially the tragedy part. I wish the author could have taken a different route on that but then again, it could and can happen.
I liked all the characters. Tuck was my favorite.
This was the main clip from the synopsis: A story of friendship, family, tragedy, and most of all romance.
I would say all of the above is true with the exception of "most of all romance." To me romance or might I say "girlfriend/boyfriend relationship(s)" was really background noise. I read this story as an individual who has a crush on her best friend but to her - she would never be good enough b/c
she viewed herself as an overweight girl with low self esteem that didn't have much moral support from her mom, sister and not really her dad.
I would say an ok book; just a little heavy.. and i was looking for something more light... Especially the tragedy part. I wish the author could have taken a different route on that but then again, it could and can happen.
I liked all the characters. Tuck was my favorite.
December 13, 2018
Lacey was sent off to live with her mother when her parents divorced a few years back. Now she is sent back home and living with her estranged dad and sister. Lacey is shy compared to her older sister Charity but that isn't the only difference. Things have changed back home and if it wasn't for Tuck, her old best friend, she wouldn't be able to survive.
This story will pull at your heart in different ways. It left a special place in my heart and I hope you will love it as much as I did.
This story will pull at your heart in different ways. It left a special place in my heart and I hope you will love it as much as I did.
November 15, 2018
The Shy Girl and the Football Star (The Sunday Lunchers 1) - PG/PG13
Trigger: divorce, eating disorder
Violence: none
Language: fewer than 20
Sex: no sex, some kissing
I thought this was going to be a cute kid lit book, a la Janette Rallison. It started out that way until it took a couple of shocking turns. Pretty intense. Probably best for early high school, at the youngest.
Trigger: divorce, eating disorder
Violence: none
Language: fewer than 20
Sex: no sex, some kissing
I thought this was going to be a cute kid lit book, a la Janette Rallison. It started out that way until it took a couple of shocking turns. Pretty intense. Probably best for early high school, at the youngest.
June 6, 2019
Excellent
Love, love, love!! ❤
Wow, and I do mean wow! This novel was excellent and thorough without becoming explicit! I love romantic novels and this one had a wonderful storyline to keep me entertained! Fabulous!
Love, love, love!! ❤
Wow, and I do mean wow! This novel was excellent and thorough without becoming explicit! I love romantic novels and this one had a wonderful storyline to keep me entertained! Fabulous!
December 5, 2019
This was an okay book. I felt there was too much drama for no reason. There was a storyline of her dad that didn't need to be added. The serious topics alone was enough. Sadly, I'm glad it was free.
June 17, 2016
Další kniha o tom, že holka při těle chce mít šťastný život, její máma ji nemiluje a ostatní holky i kluci se jí smějí kvůli vzhledu.
Další kniha o tom, že se holka rozhodne zhubnout, aby nemusela poslouchat blbé narážky.
Další kniha o anorexii.
Jenže tato kniha není tak docela tuctová. Má v sobě i něco, když ne vyloženě originálního, tak aspoň milého. Autorce se podařilo skloubit lehký styl s vícero tématy (středoškolského) života. Boj s poruchami příjmu potravy (v jedné knize je zmínka o vícero typech!), navázání vztahu s rodičem, který vás po narození opustil, vyrovnávání se se smrtí blízké osoby.
Tento úvodní díl se věnuje "lůzerce" a životní smolařce (někdy si za tu smůlu může svými přešlapy sama) Lacey. Další díly jsou pak o tom, že psychické problémy a problémy s poruchami příjmu potravy může mít i jedna z nohslednic včelí královny stejně jako superorganizovaná šprtka. Jde o takovou americkou verzi holek na vodítku, jen je to méně naturalistické.
Romantická zápletka je tak banální, jak jen romanťárna na zkonzumování může být, ale zase to vyváží to zamotané rodinné a jiná dramata. Je to taková jednohubka v některých věcech přitažená za vlasy*, ale pořád je to dostatečně sympatické a dobrou náladu navozující, abyste se při čtení necítili trapně.
*Ke konci se autorka neovládla a sentimentálně přidala obraz toho, že sestra hl. postavy, která je celý svůj život velmi amorální, najednou zpytuje své svědomí. A ta minulost rodičů se mi zdá až moc přehnaně zapletená. Jakože jestli už těch trablů není až moc na to, aby to bylo uvěřitelné. Nejdřív jsem odsuzovala i to, jak rychle dala autorka dohromady pár Hunter a Lauren, ale když jsem přivřela oko, zjistila jsem, že po všech těch jobovkách je ten slaďoučký konec tak příjemný, že si mě tím autorka usmířila.
Líbilo se mi, že Lacey neskončila jako supersexbomba nebo královna školy. Uzdravuje se a možná se dá mluvit i o tom, že postupně získává sebevědomí, ale nemoc a to kolem jí poznamenalo. Minulost nevymaže a možná vždy bude mít nějaké to kilo navíc, ale také je o něco moudřejší a s lidmi, které miluje a stojí za to milovat si buduje ještě pevnější vztah, než dřív. Takže mé sentimentální já je uspokojeno. Skončilo to vzhledem k okolnostem dobře.
Autorka začínala na wattpadu a tam jsem tuto knihu také našla. Na Wattpadu tedy není jenom odpad. Naopak. Kupodivu je tato kniha o poruchách příjmu potravy a narušených mezilidských vztazích dost příjemným letním čtením. :)
***
There are some things the cynical me deems as too unrealistic and too hurriedly written like the sudden atonement of Charity and pairing the spares into gamma (or delta) couple but you know what? It is a light summer read. It deals with a dark theme but the author managed to write in a way that portrays it quite well. It's not sugarcoating or romantization, the eating disorders, bullying, parental abuse and family drama are still an issue but it's written in a way that doesn't overwhelm you. It doesn't suck all the energy out of you. If you're angry you're angry on Charity or human pettiness for the right reasons but the plot soon draws your attention to next chapter so it doesn't leave you broken.
Další kniha o tom, že se holka rozhodne zhubnout, aby nemusela poslouchat blbé narážky.
Další kniha o anorexii.
Jenže tato kniha není tak docela tuctová. Má v sobě i něco, když ne vyloženě originálního, tak aspoň milého. Autorce se podařilo skloubit lehký styl s vícero tématy (středoškolského) života. Boj s poruchami příjmu potravy (v jedné knize je zmínka o vícero typech!), navázání vztahu s rodičem, který vás po narození opustil, vyrovnávání se se smrtí blízké osoby.
Tento úvodní díl se věnuje "lůzerce" a životní smolařce (někdy si za tu smůlu může svými přešlapy sama) Lacey. Další díly jsou pak o tom, že psychické problémy a problémy s poruchami příjmu potravy může mít i jedna z nohslednic včelí královny stejně jako superorganizovaná šprtka. Jde o takovou americkou verzi holek na vodítku, jen je to méně naturalistické.
Romantická zápletka je tak banální, jak jen romanťárna na zkonzumování může být, ale zase to vyváží to zamotané rodinné a jiná dramata. Je to taková jednohubka v některých věcech přitažená za vlasy*, ale pořád je to dostatečně sympatické a dobrou náladu navozující, abyste se při čtení necítili trapně.
*Ke konci se autorka neovládla a sentimentálně přidala obraz toho, že sestra hl. postavy, která je celý svůj život velmi amorální, najednou zpytuje své svědomí. A ta minulost rodičů se mi zdá až moc přehnaně zapletená. Jakože jestli už těch trablů není až moc na to, aby to bylo uvěřitelné. Nejdřív jsem odsuzovala i to, jak rychle dala autorka dohromady pár Hunter a Lauren, ale když jsem přivřela oko, zjistila jsem, že po všech těch jobovkách je ten slaďoučký konec tak příjemný, že si mě tím autorka usmířila.
Líbilo se mi, že Lacey neskončila jako supersexbomba nebo královna školy. Uzdravuje se a možná se dá mluvit i o tom, že postupně získává sebevědomí, ale nemoc a to kolem jí poznamenalo. Minulost nevymaže a možná vždy bude mít nějaké to kilo navíc, ale také je o něco moudřejší a s lidmi, které miluje a stojí za to milovat si buduje ještě pevnější vztah, než dřív. Takže mé sentimentální já je uspokojeno. Skončilo to vzhledem k okolnostem dobře.
Autorka začínala na wattpadu a tam jsem tuto knihu také našla. Na Wattpadu tedy není jenom odpad. Naopak. Kupodivu je tato kniha o poruchách příjmu potravy a narušených mezilidských vztazích dost příjemným letním čtením. :)
***
There are some things the cynical me deems as too unrealistic and too hurriedly written like the sudden atonement of Charity and pairing the spares into gamma (or delta) couple but you know what? It is a light summer read. It deals with a dark theme but the author managed to write in a way that portrays it quite well. It's not sugarcoating or romantization, the eating disorders, bullying, parental abuse and family drama are still an issue but it's written in a way that doesn't overwhelm you. It doesn't suck all the energy out of you. If you're angry you're angry on Charity or human pettiness for the right reasons but the plot soon draws your attention to next chapter so it doesn't leave you broken.
June 2, 2016
Skinniness Is Next To Goddessness?: Lacey's Story is a wonderful YA story about teenage girls dealing with eating disorders, body image, low self-esteem, family issues, friendship, and recovery.
In Lacey's Story, the first book in the Skinniness Is Next To Goddessness? Series, author Julia Keanini weaves a thoughtful story that follows fourteen year old freshman Lacey Steele's personal journey of self-discovery, recovery, and acceptance.
Set in Woodlands, Texas, and told in the first person perspective, Lacey takes the reader along for the ride as she describes her struggles with her weight, body image, and low self-esteem. Lacey has always struggled with her weight, and she just wants to be accepted for who she is, but with a terrible home life and bullying in school, she can't help but hate herself. When Lacey becomes ill with a stomach virus, that results in a significant weight loss, everyone at school gives her positive comments about her transformation. Lacey and friend Ashley Reynolds make a pact to begin a weight loss program called the Future Goddess Girls, with the focus on calorie intake. Up to a point their program works and they both lose weight. But their obsessiveness with eating less food leads to a competition between them that is harmful to their health, and eventually leads to tragedy. After tragedy strikes, Lacey is wrought with guilt, and she embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery that will lead her to overcoming her struggles with the love and support of family and friends, recovery and self-acceptance.
Lacey's Story is a multi-layered story that thoughtfully delves into the social issues eating disorders, body image, and bullying; and intertwines it with family issues, supportive friendships, and a boy-next-door romance that adds lightness and humor to the story. Author Julia Keanini weaves a well written story that brings to light serious issues and dangers that some teenage girls face and struggle with during their teenage years, while thoughtfully demonstrating that support is available and recovery is possible. I would recommend that young girls read this series, as it has an important message interwoven within each of the lighthearted stories.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by I Am A Reader.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
In Lacey's Story, the first book in the Skinniness Is Next To Goddessness? Series, author Julia Keanini weaves a thoughtful story that follows fourteen year old freshman Lacey Steele's personal journey of self-discovery, recovery, and acceptance.
Set in Woodlands, Texas, and told in the first person perspective, Lacey takes the reader along for the ride as she describes her struggles with her weight, body image, and low self-esteem. Lacey has always struggled with her weight, and she just wants to be accepted for who she is, but with a terrible home life and bullying in school, she can't help but hate herself. When Lacey becomes ill with a stomach virus, that results in a significant weight loss, everyone at school gives her positive comments about her transformation. Lacey and friend Ashley Reynolds make a pact to begin a weight loss program called the Future Goddess Girls, with the focus on calorie intake. Up to a point their program works and they both lose weight. But their obsessiveness with eating less food leads to a competition between them that is harmful to their health, and eventually leads to tragedy. After tragedy strikes, Lacey is wrought with guilt, and she embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery that will lead her to overcoming her struggles with the love and support of family and friends, recovery and self-acceptance.
Lacey's Story is a multi-layered story that thoughtfully delves into the social issues eating disorders, body image, and bullying; and intertwines it with family issues, supportive friendships, and a boy-next-door romance that adds lightness and humor to the story. Author Julia Keanini weaves a well written story that brings to light serious issues and dangers that some teenage girls face and struggle with during their teenage years, while thoughtfully demonstrating that support is available and recovery is possible. I would recommend that young girls read this series, as it has an important message interwoven within each of the lighthearted stories.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by I Am A Reader.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
October 18, 2016
Skinniness is Next to Goddessness by Julia Keanini is a work of fiction, but in my mind, all the details could be so real. This story will pull at your heart in so many ways. One is how many kids suffer with eating disorders and they don't even realize it. In this story Lacey is big for most of her young life and then a sickness makes her lose some pounds. After that, reality changes for her and she becomes obsessed with calories. She recruits her best friend for this task and both girls made it a game to see who will eat the least calories each day. They text each other every night with the results. Losing weight is working great until Lacey's best friend has a heart attack and soon dies. Now, she feels guilty and doesn't want anyone to know it is her fault.
So many secrets and responsibilities overcome Lacey, especially when she realizes that her now dead, best friend's sister is having the same problem. Boyfriends and school peers also play a big role in her life. How to sort all of it out is her goal. Luckily for her, she finds some help from a handsome teacher at school.
Like I said, this story could be the story of the lives of many real girls. I enjoyed this book and I believe that all pre-teen, teens, and adults will find resonance with the characters in the story. It is so important to help our young kids to not only to eat right but also to have the self esteem they need to make good choices in their young lives. I believe this book will give any reader the confidence and the desire to do what is right. Eating disorders are many, this book helps understand some that are not so common but still a big threat to the human race in general. Excellent reading.
So many secrets and responsibilities overcome Lacey, especially when she realizes that her now dead, best friend's sister is having the same problem. Boyfriends and school peers also play a big role in her life. How to sort all of it out is her goal. Luckily for her, she finds some help from a handsome teacher at school.
Like I said, this story could be the story of the lives of many real girls. I enjoyed this book and I believe that all pre-teen, teens, and adults will find resonance with the characters in the story. It is so important to help our young kids to not only to eat right but also to have the self esteem they need to make good choices in their young lives. I believe this book will give any reader the confidence and the desire to do what is right. Eating disorders are many, this book helps understand some that are not so common but still a big threat to the human race in general. Excellent reading.
May 7, 2016
I just finished reading this about 25 minutes ago. I have just ordered the other books in this series. I got the set. I'm gonna start reading those now. That is how much I liked this story. It was an easy read too, but it did take me 4 and a half hours of straight reading to finish it. I only took one bathroom break.
It may be a young adult story but anyone of any age can enjoy this, especially if they have ever been a teenager. If you were one of the not quite "perfect" kids at your school then you will definitely feel at home.
The characters seem so true to life, and the story fits how I remember things being for me and my friends in high school. Very realistic.
I think all young girls should read this book. It might help them see how things are not always the way they look. And that just cause you think you are ugly or fat, doesn't mean you really are.
I love the way the eating problems are dealt with in the story, but the story itself is really good. The writing is easy to read and it is easy to get sucked into Lacey's life.
I received a free eBook copy of this book to review, but liked it so much that I just purchased the whole 6 book set myself. So there!
It may be a young adult story but anyone of any age can enjoy this, especially if they have ever been a teenager. If you were one of the not quite "perfect" kids at your school then you will definitely feel at home.
The characters seem so true to life, and the story fits how I remember things being for me and my friends in high school. Very realistic.
I think all young girls should read this book. It might help them see how things are not always the way they look. And that just cause you think you are ugly or fat, doesn't mean you really are.
I love the way the eating problems are dealt with in the story, but the story itself is really good. The writing is easy to read and it is easy to get sucked into Lacey's life.
I received a free eBook copy of this book to review, but liked it so much that I just purchased the whole 6 book set myself. So there!
June 2, 2016
I received a copy of “Skinniness is next to Goddessness? Lacey’s Story” in exchange for an honest review.
Lacey lives in California with her mom. She knows she is not wanted but when her mom tells her she is going back to live with her dad, Lacey is floored. Her mom sends her away the next day. The first thing her sister, Charity (not at all like her name), does is notice Lacey’s weight. So Charity takes it upon herself to set up training with the two hunks next door and to put Lacey on a diet. When the stomach flu causes Lacey to lose a lot of weight, the kids at school start paying attention to her instead of making fun of her. One of the hunks next door is Tuck, Lacey’s best friend. He starts paying much more attention to her which makes her uncomfortable. She insists that he date other girls because she isn’t good enough for him. When one of her friends dies from an eating disease, Lacey realizes that she needs help with her dieting.
A well written novel that carefully discusses the dangers of eating disorders. Definitely a must read for everyone.
Lacey lives in California with her mom. She knows she is not wanted but when her mom tells her she is going back to live with her dad, Lacey is floored. Her mom sends her away the next day. The first thing her sister, Charity (not at all like her name), does is notice Lacey’s weight. So Charity takes it upon herself to set up training with the two hunks next door and to put Lacey on a diet. When the stomach flu causes Lacey to lose a lot of weight, the kids at school start paying attention to her instead of making fun of her. One of the hunks next door is Tuck, Lacey’s best friend. He starts paying much more attention to her which makes her uncomfortable. She insists that he date other girls because she isn’t good enough for him. When one of her friends dies from an eating disease, Lacey realizes that she needs help with her dieting.
A well written novel that carefully discusses the dangers of eating disorders. Definitely a must read for everyone.
June 14, 2016
Disclaimer: The e-book version of the book was sent to me for an honest review. The opinions are entirely my own.
I surprised myself by how much I enjoyed this book.
The writing was simple, but effective, and although the characters seemed they fit into this narrow cliché, they were actually more than that.
Lacey’s Story is about eating disorders, low self-esteem, and recovery. And these serious issues are brought to light in a natural manner, without too much drama or darkness. While I find it hard to enjoy contemporary YA, I do appreciate when these books talk about important issues in an easy to grasp way.
Maybe there was room for more, but I think the decision to not make the book about Lacey’s eating disorder, but about Lacey was more effective as you can see the subtle ways the disorder is present throughout the book without being the center of attention.
If there's something to complain about is that I almost gave up on this book multiple times during the first third of it.
I surprised myself by how much I enjoyed this book.
The writing was simple, but effective, and although the characters seemed they fit into this narrow cliché, they were actually more than that.
Lacey’s Story is about eating disorders, low self-esteem, and recovery. And these serious issues are brought to light in a natural manner, without too much drama or darkness. While I find it hard to enjoy contemporary YA, I do appreciate when these books talk about important issues in an easy to grasp way.
Maybe there was room for more, but I think the decision to not make the book about Lacey’s eating disorder, but about Lacey was more effective as you can see the subtle ways the disorder is present throughout the book without being the center of attention.
If there's something to complain about is that I almost gave up on this book multiple times during the first third of it.
October 3, 2021
A GoodReads GiveAway
This is a story of high school girls with eating disorders. It is particularly the story of Lacey Steele whose unhealthy relationship with food stems from … well, who knows for sure … perhaps from trauma caused by her parents’ divorce; perhaps from the fact that her mother constantly berates her; perhaps because her sister is one of the mean girls at school.
Lacey and her friend Ashley begin a weight loss diet — the Future Goddess Girls. Up to a point their program works; they both lose weight. But their obsessiveness with food leads to harm and the toll it takes creates tragedy.
This story is also about friendship, its depths and its shallowness. And it’s about high school romance, a convoluted state of affairs that can — and does — wreak a kind of havoc on teenagers.
The author has worked hard to write this novel, never doubt that. While the book has its humorous moments, it is a cautionary tale.
This is a story of high school girls with eating disorders. It is particularly the story of Lacey Steele whose unhealthy relationship with food stems from … well, who knows for sure … perhaps from trauma caused by her parents’ divorce; perhaps from the fact that her mother constantly berates her; perhaps because her sister is one of the mean girls at school.
Lacey and her friend Ashley begin a weight loss diet — the Future Goddess Girls. Up to a point their program works; they both lose weight. But their obsessiveness with food leads to harm and the toll it takes creates tragedy.
This story is also about friendship, its depths and its shallowness. And it’s about high school romance, a convoluted state of affairs that can — and does — wreak a kind of havoc on teenagers.
The author has worked hard to write this novel, never doubt that. While the book has its humorous moments, it is a cautionary tale.
July 26, 2017
Amazing
This books was absolutely amazing I almost cried I have thought about doing what ash and Lacey did but I couldn't do it reading this book helped me realize this I hope other girls who have issues with there weight even though they are all beautiful will read this it's amazing.
This books was absolutely amazing I almost cried I have thought about doing what ash and Lacey did but I couldn't do it reading this book helped me realize this I hope other girls who have issues with there weight even though they are all beautiful will read this it's amazing.
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