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Just me, the Sink & the Pot
Meet Pamela, an overweight girl who's looking back at her school days. From longing for a Valentine to dealing with a sibling who hates her, Pamela has a lot to deal with. She even has a special bunch of friends at home who she can turn to - but they aren't the kind of friends you'd expect. Life sucks when you're fat. Can Pamela ever be happy?
96 pages, ebook
Published February 4, 2017
About the author
Sudesna Ghosh
36 books56 followersSudesna or Sue is an author based in India. When she isn't writing or reading, she is busy taking care of her rescue cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 15, 2017
‘Just me…’ deals with a very sensitive and serious issue of body-shaming which affects a good percentage of kids these days—putting a dent on their self-esteem, which often goes undetected and manifests later. With easy availability of high calories junk food, the problem is all the more prominent and insurmountable for the generation.
The story is a bitter sweet journey of Pamela’s teenage years, which reads like a diary, giving us a glimpse of how her mind works and what she goes through as the various events and happenings unfold. The author has given us a deep insight in the psyche of a teenager through Pamela and her schoolmates.
For young kids, peers play a very important part in their day to day activities. The need to fit in and being part of any group is paramount in these growing years. But kids being kids, some are mean and some plain ignorant, and more often they don’t know how to handle a situation tactfully and hurt others unintentionally. This reverse psychology of kids has been captured very well throughout the book.
My heart went to Pamela as she find solace in her stuffed toys and talks her problems with her imaginary friends. I loved the idea of the author creating Pamela’s alter ego who kept her in line and spoke sane advices, making her think and evaluate events logically.
The narration and flow of language is impeccable. The end was a bit abrupt leaving me a bit dissatisfied. The chapter just ended as if someone has put a screeching brake on a vehicle moving at full speed. I would have loved to see Pamela gaining her self-esteem back and look at her teenage years with nostalgia and fondness.
I think everyone can take something from the story and steer clear from stereotyping people, especially kids.
A recommended read.
The story is a bitter sweet journey of Pamela’s teenage years, which reads like a diary, giving us a glimpse of how her mind works and what she goes through as the various events and happenings unfold. The author has given us a deep insight in the psyche of a teenager through Pamela and her schoolmates.
For young kids, peers play a very important part in their day to day activities. The need to fit in and being part of any group is paramount in these growing years. But kids being kids, some are mean and some plain ignorant, and more often they don’t know how to handle a situation tactfully and hurt others unintentionally. This reverse psychology of kids has been captured very well throughout the book.
My heart went to Pamela as she find solace in her stuffed toys and talks her problems with her imaginary friends. I loved the idea of the author creating Pamela’s alter ego who kept her in line and spoke sane advices, making her think and evaluate events logically.
The narration and flow of language is impeccable. The end was a bit abrupt leaving me a bit dissatisfied. The chapter just ended as if someone has put a screeching brake on a vehicle moving at full speed. I would have loved to see Pamela gaining her self-esteem back and look at her teenage years with nostalgia and fondness.
I think everyone can take something from the story and steer clear from stereotyping people, especially kids.
A recommended read.
July 22, 2017
I confess that I had overlooked this book at the beginning because of the cover. Yeah, I know I am being superficial but I can't help it at times. So you are asking why I picked it up? It's solely because of the blurb. It had me thinking about the book and I had to know if Pamela was happy at the end. In hindsight, I am glad that I came across it. Now I have no words to describe what it has evoked in me. I will try my best though!
When I started the book, I didn't realise that it was in a style similar to the diary format. I am not used to it much. Except for The Diary of a Young Girl, Anne Frank, I hadn't read any in this form. So it took a bit to get into it. But as soon as I got enmeshed in Pamela's heart, I wouldn't have it in any other form.
The story is about Pamela and her everyday struggles as a fat kid. It deals with body shaming and bullying. Kudos to the author to be gutsy enough to write on these psychologically important issues. The way the author has dealt with the sensitive material in the form of a first hand account of a girl who is deemed not normal by her peers is commendable. This resonated within me because seriously who hasn't felt what Pamela experiences. I can see a bit of me in her and I feel every teen would feel that way except for those who were perfect which I doubt anyone could be. The flow is easy and the language is simple. It is a fast read which touched my heart in so many ways. The wry humour had me smiling with tears in the eyes. It is at once funny and poignant. It had me thinking late into the night.
I have always felt that Anne Frank's Diary has to be read by people of all ages and I feel the same way about this book too! This is a must read for everyone especially teenagers. It would help in making the kids realise how much impact they have on their peers and how deep it can be.
The only thing which doesn't make the book a full 5 star read for me is the ending. Though it had a sudden twist, it was rather abrupt. I was seriously thinking the author would end it with a Pamela who would find her one and look back with nostalgia. I did like the ending with Pamela's realisation that it's okay to be different but it was just too abrupt for my tastes. Other than that, I applaud the author on a book well written!
My one line review : A must read for everyone especially teenagers
My rating : 4.5/5
My reread factor : 3/5
When I started the book, I didn't realise that it was in a style similar to the diary format. I am not used to it much. Except for The Diary of a Young Girl, Anne Frank, I hadn't read any in this form. So it took a bit to get into it. But as soon as I got enmeshed in Pamela's heart, I wouldn't have it in any other form.
The story is about Pamela and her everyday struggles as a fat kid. It deals with body shaming and bullying. Kudos to the author to be gutsy enough to write on these psychologically important issues. The way the author has dealt with the sensitive material in the form of a first hand account of a girl who is deemed not normal by her peers is commendable. This resonated within me because seriously who hasn't felt what Pamela experiences. I can see a bit of me in her and I feel every teen would feel that way except for those who were perfect which I doubt anyone could be. The flow is easy and the language is simple. It is a fast read which touched my heart in so many ways. The wry humour had me smiling with tears in the eyes. It is at once funny and poignant. It had me thinking late into the night.
I have always felt that Anne Frank's Diary has to be read by people of all ages and I feel the same way about this book too! This is a must read for everyone especially teenagers. It would help in making the kids realise how much impact they have on their peers and how deep it can be.
The only thing which doesn't make the book a full 5 star read for me is the ending. Though it had a sudden twist, it was rather abrupt. I was seriously thinking the author would end it with a Pamela who would find her one and look back with nostalgia. I did like the ending with Pamela's realisation that it's okay to be different but it was just too abrupt for my tastes. Other than that, I applaud the author on a book well written!
My one line review : A must read for everyone especially teenagers
My rating : 4.5/5
My reread factor : 3/5
July 9, 2017
Just me, the Sink & the Pot, an aptly titled book by Sudesna Ghosh, is a story of an overweight teenage girl Pamela and her struggles thereof. It is a witty take on the challenges faced by a 'fat' and 'ugly' person who is mostly lonely, due to this predicament.
Pamela is a fat kid with an Indian mother and an American father. Due to her size, she has been ridiculed since childhood and has no friends. Her only 'friends' are those in her bedroom - her dolls. Pamela discusses everything with them and they are the only ones who offer some comfort to her dreadful life. Her own sister, who is skinny, hates her and is ashamed of Pamela as her sister in public. As Pamela grows up, she is eager to have a boyfriend but then, who would want to talk to a fat girl? But when she does find one, it doesn't last long. Again, because of her confused emotional state. The book takes us through Pamela's journey, her struggles and the turmoil she goes through just trying to 'fit in' or be 'normal'.
Just me, the Sink & the Pot is a quick read with the narrative in the first person. The book is fast paced with humorous anecdotes here and there. The writing style is good. One can actually empathize with the protagonist and with her constant desire of wanting to be a skinny girl. The book is an easy (sometimes emotional) read that talks about the rise of an inferiority complex due to a plump body.
The book is not a long one but it does contain a very crucial message, especially for teenage children, about body shaming. It stresses on the sad fact as to how overweight people are ousted or simply ignored. The struggles of the 'victims' are real that often lead to many physical and psychological problems, which is so unfair.
I would strongly recommend people, especially teenage children and their parents, to read this book just to create awareness to not discriminate anyone based on their looks or size.
*** This book was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. ***
Pamela is a fat kid with an Indian mother and an American father. Due to her size, she has been ridiculed since childhood and has no friends. Her only 'friends' are those in her bedroom - her dolls. Pamela discusses everything with them and they are the only ones who offer some comfort to her dreadful life. Her own sister, who is skinny, hates her and is ashamed of Pamela as her sister in public. As Pamela grows up, she is eager to have a boyfriend but then, who would want to talk to a fat girl? But when she does find one, it doesn't last long. Again, because of her confused emotional state. The book takes us through Pamela's journey, her struggles and the turmoil she goes through just trying to 'fit in' or be 'normal'.
Just me, the Sink & the Pot is a quick read with the narrative in the first person. The book is fast paced with humorous anecdotes here and there. The writing style is good. One can actually empathize with the protagonist and with her constant desire of wanting to be a skinny girl. The book is an easy (sometimes emotional) read that talks about the rise of an inferiority complex due to a plump body.
The book is not a long one but it does contain a very crucial message, especially for teenage children, about body shaming. It stresses on the sad fact as to how overweight people are ousted or simply ignored. The struggles of the 'victims' are real that often lead to many physical and psychological problems, which is so unfair.
I would strongly recommend people, especially teenage children and their parents, to read this book just to create awareness to not discriminate anyone based on their looks or size.
*** This book was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. ***
June 15, 2017
“Life sucks when you don’t look like everybody else.”
Pamela is half Bengali, half American, born of parents who clashed over a plate of spicy chicken tikka. The clash led to a storybook romance, and life could not have been rosier. However, the reality lies elsewhere.
Pamela is the quintessential fat girl, who goes through a large part of her life hating her appearance and just living with her repulsive fat self. Endowed with hazel eyes, long eyelashes and a slim but cute nose, she finds that all her attributes get swallowed up in the reality of her extra-large size. She has mastered the art of living the fat girl life, as she puts it. “Life was more about hiding the hugeness.”
Her mean sister, Mona, does little to boost her self-confidence, often siding with her detractors to poke fun at her. To add insult to injury, Mona is small and slim, having inherited “good genes from (our) parents and ancestors.”
To combat her loneliness, Pamela creates her own family and friends in the form of Ernie, with his orange head and googly eyes, who is as wise as he is lovable, Pumpkin, O Henry, Chimpu, Pookie, Pingu and Teddu, and bares her heart out to them in the privacy of her bedroom.
School life is no better as it is the slim girls like Reshmi and Aparna who are popular. Pamela is often derided or ignored, even as she longs to live the magical lives that her slimmer classmates enjoy. She dreams of scenarios from ‘Friends’ and ‘Sex and the City’, and despairs of ever finding a boy who would be interested in her. Sudesna Ghosh describes these episodes with wry, self-deprecating humour, as the dashing Ben, the shy, fat, girly-voiced Sumit and her very own miracle date Abhi, come into Pamela’s life for a while, and then leave her for various reasons.
In frustration, Pamela laments, “I never really understood why people make everything their business. From a pimple to your weight loss to your weight gain, people love to give their input even when you do not ask.”
The significance of the unusual title of the book becomes clear after Pamela goes as a teacher to Mona’s class on Teacher’s Day, and is laughed at and insulted.
“I hid in the bathroom to cry my heart out. I loved being alone. It was just me, the sink and the pot.” It was the one place of refuge that she found where she could vent out her emotions.
However, there is a big surprise waiting for Pamela at the end of the book, one which makes her feel vindicated. As she finally puts it, “I’m cool because I am different. It’s stupid to try to look like everybody else.”
Written in simple language, the book deals with the normal mood swings of an overweight young girl, highlighting various instances in which she is hurt every single day as she strives to be accepted in a society in which good looks are paramount. The chapter titles are as eye-catching as the title of the book. What is especially noteworthy is the way in which the author has brought out the insecurities of a young girl so consumed with hatred for her body that she suffers low self-esteem issues. This could be a story about you, me or just anybody.
February 21, 2017
Just Me... tells the bitter sweet story of Pamela, a young girl whose self-esteem has taken a battering due to her body image issues. While her sister Mona is 'lean and mean' Pamela thinks of herself as 'fat and unlucky'. Fat-shaming forces Pamela to become an introvert who shies away from her own family. The only friends she has are her family of dolls, Ernie, Pingu, O'Henry with whom she shares all her woes. Most of her friendships in the real world are shortlived. Will Pamela's insecurities get the better of her or will she be able to overcome them? Written in the first person, the author takes you deep into the every day crises that Pamela faces and how she deals with them. Her self-deprecating humour will want you to reach out and give Pamela a hug. A well written book that makes you think deep and hard about the everyday challenges that our children face in a slim-obsessed society.
August 31, 2017
Given my professional interest in weight gain and the food industry's role in it, this book caught my eye. It's the diary of Pamela, an overweight teenager in India, and it chronicles the body-shaming she experiences on a daily basis. Sadly, many kids face exactly this--adults too--and Ghosh does a great job of capturing Pamela's angst, including how she channels it back into eating and living in a fantasy world with her stuffed animals. Both heartbreaking and humorous, it's hard not to want to jump into Pamela's world and go teach those mean kids a lesson. The setting of India was an added bonus--it's one of my favorite foreign settings in fiction. This is a short read but never a dull one.
June 11, 2017
The story of Pamela touched my heart. The author has very vividly portrayed the emotional and psychological journey of this young girl. The descriptions were so vivid that I could imagine and feel for her. My only concern is that the last chapter could have been further elaborated so that young girls going through a similar journey can find some solace n some points of view to change their thoughts and pattern. kudos to the author for having picked up such issues as body shaming, bullying, low self esteem and written about it.
September 19, 2017
Every fat child's woe which in the later year turns into a psychological problem. People in their 'positive modes' forget that not everything is a joke. I have heard so many stories of fat kids, fat woman, and fat men. I personally feel it's the fat women who are worst hit.
A shame and an abomination that slowly weakens the will power of a woman. Either they fight back or they hide in their weeping holes where no one can see them. And the worst part is - no one cares. For fatness is not a disease according to many, but a lazy living, an indulgent lifestyle.
Ms. Ghosh's Pamela is one such character whose life is dominated by her fear of being fat. Where self-acceptance is more important than waiting for other's approval. I love the way her guilt, her fear of eating has been portrayed.
What other's will think if one eats? Superbly done.
The continuous bullying, the continuous fear culminated into Pamela fainting one day. My heart went out for the little girl who was afraid to eat, afraid to buy clothes, lest they don't fit. I hate those do gooders who are always ready to advise on how to lose weight. Seriously. Every person's life is different - physically, psychologically. But standing on a pedestrian after losing a few kilos is really not the way to advice fat people. That leads to more depression.
Check out the full review at
http://www.rubinaramesh.com/2017/09/b...
A shame and an abomination that slowly weakens the will power of a woman. Either they fight back or they hide in their weeping holes where no one can see them. And the worst part is - no one cares. For fatness is not a disease according to many, but a lazy living, an indulgent lifestyle.
Ms. Ghosh's Pamela is one such character whose life is dominated by her fear of being fat. Where self-acceptance is more important than waiting for other's approval. I love the way her guilt, her fear of eating has been portrayed.
What other's will think if one eats? Superbly done.
The continuous bullying, the continuous fear culminated into Pamela fainting one day. My heart went out for the little girl who was afraid to eat, afraid to buy clothes, lest they don't fit. I hate those do gooders who are always ready to advise on how to lose weight. Seriously. Every person's life is different - physically, psychologically. But standing on a pedestrian after losing a few kilos is really not the way to advice fat people. That leads to more depression.
Check out the full review at
http://www.rubinaramesh.com/2017/09/b...
July 30, 2017
Picked up the book purely out of curiosity. Know what? The title and the blurb made me wonder how the two were related and I must say that when I went through the book I found the title to be apt. In fact I think there could not have been a better one.
‘Just me, the Sink & the Pot’ has at its core the subject of body shaming which is I must admit, something that is on the rise these days. The dilemma, the sufferings and the aspirations of an overweight girl are put forth beautifully and one can’t help but empathize with Pamela the protagonist and the butt of ridicule both at home and outside. But there were places in the story where I felt she was getting too obsessed with her weight and structure unnecessarily and that the real cause of her miseries was her own low-esteem. She was virtually turning out to be her own enemy.
Read the full review at - https://geetaavij.wordpress.com/2017/...
‘Just me, the Sink & the Pot’ has at its core the subject of body shaming which is I must admit, something that is on the rise these days. The dilemma, the sufferings and the aspirations of an overweight girl are put forth beautifully and one can’t help but empathize with Pamela the protagonist and the butt of ridicule both at home and outside. But there were places in the story where I felt she was getting too obsessed with her weight and structure unnecessarily and that the real cause of her miseries was her own low-esteem. She was virtually turning out to be her own enemy.
Read the full review at - https://geetaavij.wordpress.com/2017/...
January 29, 2018
I just loved it. It felt more like a Fat Girl's Diary than a fiction novella, but I enjoyed it. The most beautiful thing was that the author has created a character which readers eventually fell in love with. I found myself rooting for Pamela from the first page. She was such an innocent teenager.
My only criticism was the lack of action or dialogues in the book. I would have liked to read more about conversations and the associated bodily gestures. That said, the author's writing style was impressive. The language was easy and it flew like a steady stream from chapter to chapter. The book tends to get funny at times despite dealing with the idiosyncrasies of fat kids like Pam. All in all, it was a cozy read just like a hot cup of coffee on a cold winter evening.
My only criticism was the lack of action or dialogues in the book. I would have liked to read more about conversations and the associated bodily gestures. That said, the author's writing style was impressive. The language was easy and it flew like a steady stream from chapter to chapter. The book tends to get funny at times despite dealing with the idiosyncrasies of fat kids like Pam. All in all, it was a cozy read just like a hot cup of coffee on a cold winter evening.
July 4, 2017
Sudesna Ghosh brings a funny tale of the angst of a plump teenager. Why should thin people especially girls have all the fun and attention? There is always a complex of inferiority in the fat girls. Is it justified or is it because of the false image of the beauty drilled into our minds by popular culture. The beautiful girl has perfect figure of 36-24-36.
Pamela is an 18 year old teenager who is fat. She has a heart of gold and she is grappling with growing up issues of a fatso girl. She has her family, friends (virtual too in teddies and other toys) and her crush. Nor she fit in with the thin girl gang and neither she wants to. She has a fat friend Krish who tries to fit in. she somehow loses weight and then stops hanging out with Pamela. She gets into relations ship with a fat boy but feels that a bad idea. So she dumps him. This is a story how she feels about her weight issues and aftermath.
The tale is sweet, relatable, fast paced and interesting. It kept me hooked. It finishes it in 3 hours. The treatment is humorous and funny. Some interesting passages:
1. We huge girls need our own magazine. One with no articles about romance, sex, love and all of those other things that did not exist in our lives. I suggested that to an editor or two who never got back to me. I wrote to them saying ‘your current magazine does not appeal to girls who wear plus sizes.’
2. When I was 14, I wanted to be a dietician but during the first semester of high school, a classmate helpfully pointed out that people wouldn’t want advice from a fat dietician. “Why would people even listen to somebody who’s so fat?” Thank you for that, Sona.
3. “I think we are getting too serious.” I would never forget the look on his face. I felt relief after I broke the bond. Two fat people trying to date was obviously a bad decision. Extremely bad if you ask me. We were like two huge pumpkins trying to celebrate Halloween. Although my teeth are not as weird as those carved ones.
The book has some issues too. It is told from a first person POV and most of the time it is a monologue. It has very few dialogues and plot is almost non-existent. The woes of a fat person becomes too tedious after a certain point. There is hyperbole in the treatment and Pamela has almost neurotic obsession with her weight. I wish she could relax and have a life.
This is a book for teenagers and they will like it. I give it 3/5 stars.
Where to buy:
https://www.amazon.in/Just-Sink-Pot-S...
Blurb:
Meet Pamela, an overweight girl who's looking back at her school days. From longing for a Valentine to dealing with a sibling who hates her, Pamela has a lot to deal with. She even has a special bunch of friends at home who she can turn to - but they aren't the kind of friends you'd expect. Life sucks when you're fat. Can Pamela ever be happy?
About the author:
Sudesna or Sue is the author of short stories, two nonfiction books, and now, a fiction work called Just me, the Sink & the Pot. When she isn't writing or reading, she's busy being mommy to her adopted cats.
Pamela is an 18 year old teenager who is fat. She has a heart of gold and she is grappling with growing up issues of a fatso girl. She has her family, friends (virtual too in teddies and other toys) and her crush. Nor she fit in with the thin girl gang and neither she wants to. She has a fat friend Krish who tries to fit in. she somehow loses weight and then stops hanging out with Pamela. She gets into relations ship with a fat boy but feels that a bad idea. So she dumps him. This is a story how she feels about her weight issues and aftermath.
The tale is sweet, relatable, fast paced and interesting. It kept me hooked. It finishes it in 3 hours. The treatment is humorous and funny. Some interesting passages:
1. We huge girls need our own magazine. One with no articles about romance, sex, love and all of those other things that did not exist in our lives. I suggested that to an editor or two who never got back to me. I wrote to them saying ‘your current magazine does not appeal to girls who wear plus sizes.’
2. When I was 14, I wanted to be a dietician but during the first semester of high school, a classmate helpfully pointed out that people wouldn’t want advice from a fat dietician. “Why would people even listen to somebody who’s so fat?” Thank you for that, Sona.
3. “I think we are getting too serious.” I would never forget the look on his face. I felt relief after I broke the bond. Two fat people trying to date was obviously a bad decision. Extremely bad if you ask me. We were like two huge pumpkins trying to celebrate Halloween. Although my teeth are not as weird as those carved ones.
The book has some issues too. It is told from a first person POV and most of the time it is a monologue. It has very few dialogues and plot is almost non-existent. The woes of a fat person becomes too tedious after a certain point. There is hyperbole in the treatment and Pamela has almost neurotic obsession with her weight. I wish she could relax and have a life.
This is a book for teenagers and they will like it. I give it 3/5 stars.
Where to buy:
https://www.amazon.in/Just-Sink-Pot-S...
Blurb:
Meet Pamela, an overweight girl who's looking back at her school days. From longing for a Valentine to dealing with a sibling who hates her, Pamela has a lot to deal with. She even has a special bunch of friends at home who she can turn to - but they aren't the kind of friends you'd expect. Life sucks when you're fat. Can Pamela ever be happy?
About the author:
Sudesna or Sue is the author of short stories, two nonfiction books, and now, a fiction work called Just me, the Sink & the Pot. When she isn't writing or reading, she's busy being mommy to her adopted cats.
July 13, 2017
My Honest Review:
In India, people have a peculiar mindset when it comes to girl’s physique. She should be fair, neither dark nor wheatish, she should have average height neither tall nor short. She should have a normal slim figure if not size zero and if by mistake you are plump then all the hell breaks loose.
We all have a stereotype image especially for girls and if they don’t fit into that mould then the girl never hears the end of it.
Just me, The Sink and The Pot is the story of a cute girl who is half Bengali and half American and also plump. And instead of accepting her and providing necessary support and making her feel at ease, her mother and sister make it a point to mention her weight, ridicule it and make her feel worse. Only relief for her is her American father, who supports her and tries to make her feel better and also her extended family (her stuffed toys).
The book is a first person narrative by the protagonist Pamela, who faces ridicule at home, at school, everywhere just because she is plump. So instead of real world she tries to find solace by ranting and venting her anger and frustrations, sharing her feelings, her dreams and crushes with her extended family and by writing short stories.
Just me, The Sink and The Pot is collection of Pamela’s day-to-day instances, her experiences which she faces from since she can remember till adolescence.
We often tend to judge people by their physical appearance. But we seldom look at what that person really is. And when such a person is constantly exposed to such ridicule on one’s appearance, the child or for any instance, anyone loses one’s self confidence and becomes an introvert or retracts into his/her shell.
This is perfectly expressed in Just me, The Sink and The Pot by author Sudesna Ghosh. I applaud Sudesna for dealing with such delicate issue in such an innovative yet simple manner.
By use of simple day-to-day happenings of a normal school/college going girl, makes the reader connect and if you had experienced or have seen anyone close going through such difficult stage at any certain point of life, you instantly relate to Pamela and her emotions.
Just me, The Sink and The Pot is an easy and light read but with some thought provoking and emotional stories in an easy and simple language.
In India, people have a peculiar mindset when it comes to girl’s physique. She should be fair, neither dark nor wheatish, she should have average height neither tall nor short. She should have a normal slim figure if not size zero and if by mistake you are plump then all the hell breaks loose.
We all have a stereotype image especially for girls and if they don’t fit into that mould then the girl never hears the end of it.
Just me, The Sink and The Pot is the story of a cute girl who is half Bengali and half American and also plump. And instead of accepting her and providing necessary support and making her feel at ease, her mother and sister make it a point to mention her weight, ridicule it and make her feel worse. Only relief for her is her American father, who supports her and tries to make her feel better and also her extended family (her stuffed toys).
The book is a first person narrative by the protagonist Pamela, who faces ridicule at home, at school, everywhere just because she is plump. So instead of real world she tries to find solace by ranting and venting her anger and frustrations, sharing her feelings, her dreams and crushes with her extended family and by writing short stories.
Just me, The Sink and The Pot is collection of Pamela’s day-to-day instances, her experiences which she faces from since she can remember till adolescence.
We often tend to judge people by their physical appearance. But we seldom look at what that person really is. And when such a person is constantly exposed to such ridicule on one’s appearance, the child or for any instance, anyone loses one’s self confidence and becomes an introvert or retracts into his/her shell.
This is perfectly expressed in Just me, The Sink and The Pot by author Sudesna Ghosh. I applaud Sudesna for dealing with such delicate issue in such an innovative yet simple manner.
By use of simple day-to-day happenings of a normal school/college going girl, makes the reader connect and if you had experienced or have seen anyone close going through such difficult stage at any certain point of life, you instantly relate to Pamela and her emotions.
Just me, The Sink and The Pot is an easy and light read but with some thought provoking and emotional stories in an easy and simple language.
July 16, 2017
Hard to put down.
I must admit the title intrigued me, as did the buzz I had heard about the book. And the book did not fail to deliver what it promised. I couldn’t put it down once I started reading it.
Would I classify it as fiction or non- fiction? It links both worlds and I felt my heart crying a little bit as I read about Pamela’s experiences as a fat girl.
The world is cruel and all the more to those who cannot stand up for themselves. Pamela has learnt very early in life, that ‘fat” girls cannot do a lot of things. They cannot expect to get heart shaped candy on Valentine’s day even in kindergarten. They cannot hope that the object of their crush would even notice them romantically. They cannot hope to be the star in school plays.
When not only classmates but also family join in to ridicule her, Pamela withdraws into a world of her own where she talks to her toys and looks to them for emotional support. She rarely talks to people but her fertile imagination produces all sorts of scenes where she is loved rather than ridiculed.
The only thing I found a little odd was that if she was so obviously overweight and had social and emotional issues, why didn’t her parents do something about it? Why could they have not worked with her on her diet and other issues? In the end she is glad because she finally has a family that cares about her talent. Why could she not have a family that simply cared about her?
It just drives home the point that a lot of parents just close their eyes to the issues faced by their kids. They are too scared to tackle their kids head on. They don’t want to admit that their kids have a problem. They can’t accept the fact that their kid might need help. If only we as parents accept our kids with all their flaws and give them unconditional love, will our kids find the strength to face anything that the world throws at them. They won’t need to withdraw into a make-believe world where toys talk to them and give them advice on how to live their lives even at 18.
I must admit the title intrigued me, as did the buzz I had heard about the book. And the book did not fail to deliver what it promised. I couldn’t put it down once I started reading it.
Would I classify it as fiction or non- fiction? It links both worlds and I felt my heart crying a little bit as I read about Pamela’s experiences as a fat girl.
The world is cruel and all the more to those who cannot stand up for themselves. Pamela has learnt very early in life, that ‘fat” girls cannot do a lot of things. They cannot expect to get heart shaped candy on Valentine’s day even in kindergarten. They cannot hope that the object of their crush would even notice them romantically. They cannot hope to be the star in school plays.
When not only classmates but also family join in to ridicule her, Pamela withdraws into a world of her own where she talks to her toys and looks to them for emotional support. She rarely talks to people but her fertile imagination produces all sorts of scenes where she is loved rather than ridiculed.
The only thing I found a little odd was that if she was so obviously overweight and had social and emotional issues, why didn’t her parents do something about it? Why could they have not worked with her on her diet and other issues? In the end she is glad because she finally has a family that cares about her talent. Why could she not have a family that simply cared about her?
It just drives home the point that a lot of parents just close their eyes to the issues faced by their kids. They are too scared to tackle their kids head on. They don’t want to admit that their kids have a problem. They can’t accept the fact that their kid might need help. If only we as parents accept our kids with all their flaws and give them unconditional love, will our kids find the strength to face anything that the world throws at them. They won’t need to withdraw into a make-believe world where toys talk to them and give them advice on how to live their lives even at 18.
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October 8, 2020A story that deals with the problems faced by kids that are victmis of bullying. Although it is different from what I have been getting used to in Sudesna Ghosh's books it is still an enjoyable read.
July 16, 2017
Sudesna Ghosh's book on body image gives a glimpse into the world of people who are bullied, abused just for the way they look. This book is like a Memoir by Sudesna Ghosh and reads like a diary.
She imagines having a normal life, having a thin body, a boyfriend, get married, have sex, do exciting things in life. But everything collects around the thought that she is Fat and the society is partial to Thin girls.
Simple, clear language which gives you a clear view into the life of a girl termed as 'Fat' by the society.
But the writing is always in a lighter, funny tone. So its not depressing nor sounds as if its venting out but instead enlightening.
Pamela's continuous thinking that the Thin girls get everything good in life, makes her unable to see the other good things in her life.
Read entire review: Book Review: Just me, the Sink & the Pot by Sudesna Ghosh
She imagines having a normal life, having a thin body, a boyfriend, get married, have sex, do exciting things in life. But everything collects around the thought that she is Fat and the society is partial to Thin girls.
Simple, clear language which gives you a clear view into the life of a girl termed as 'Fat' by the society.
But the writing is always in a lighter, funny tone. So its not depressing nor sounds as if its venting out but instead enlightening.
Pamela's continuous thinking that the Thin girls get everything good in life, makes her unable to see the other good things in her life.
Read entire review: Book Review: Just me, the Sink & the Pot by Sudesna Ghosh
July 1, 2017
Pamela is a teenager born to a Bengali mother and American father. Pamela is also an overweight girl. It doesn’t help that she has a ‘thin family’ with parents and a sister who are slim. Apart from being slim, Pamelas’s Mother and Sister are a tad heartless and completely clueless about the turmoil she is going through because of her weight.
Being overweight is the reason that everyone Pamela meets and all that she sees is through a prism of self-doubt. With only a Father who seems concerned about her, though not as much she would like him to, Pamela finds solace in her soft toys whom she talks her heart out to and considers her family. Chimpu, Pookie, Pingu, Teddu, Ernie, Pumpkin and O’ Henry are the friends who pep her up, make her see reason and reprimand her if need be.
If the home front seems difficult Pamelas’s school front is no better. With popular ‘skinny girls’ like Reshmi and her sycophants who go out of their way to ridicule and hurt Pamela.
Outwardly Pamela may not be like other girls her age, but like her fellow teens she dreams of love, a boyfriend, of being popular and being called beautiful, an impossible dream as Pamela is made to realise every day in many cruel ways.
So what happens to Pamela? Does she lose weight? Does she find love? Buy Just Me, the Sink & the Pot by Sudesna Ghosh to find out.
We rarely think of what we don’t experience, and when we don’t experience something empathy cannot make place for it in our hearts. With ‘Just Me, the Sink & the Pot’ author Sudesna Ghosh attempts to change it all, shining the spotlight on body shaming, on the insecurities and other negative emotions that seep into the psyche with being overweight. Sudesna’s writing is fluid, concise and refreshingly honest. Reading the book is like listening to your best friend pour her heart out to you. This book is literally a social message and a cry for understanding and to be understood.
If I had the power I would make Just Me, the Sink & the Pot by Sudesna Ghosh
a compulsory reading in school, and for parents.
Being overweight is the reason that everyone Pamela meets and all that she sees is through a prism of self-doubt. With only a Father who seems concerned about her, though not as much she would like him to, Pamela finds solace in her soft toys whom she talks her heart out to and considers her family. Chimpu, Pookie, Pingu, Teddu, Ernie, Pumpkin and O’ Henry are the friends who pep her up, make her see reason and reprimand her if need be.
If the home front seems difficult Pamelas’s school front is no better. With popular ‘skinny girls’ like Reshmi and her sycophants who go out of their way to ridicule and hurt Pamela.
Outwardly Pamela may not be like other girls her age, but like her fellow teens she dreams of love, a boyfriend, of being popular and being called beautiful, an impossible dream as Pamela is made to realise every day in many cruel ways.
So what happens to Pamela? Does she lose weight? Does she find love? Buy Just Me, the Sink & the Pot by Sudesna Ghosh to find out.
We rarely think of what we don’t experience, and when we don’t experience something empathy cannot make place for it in our hearts. With ‘Just Me, the Sink & the Pot’ author Sudesna Ghosh attempts to change it all, shining the spotlight on body shaming, on the insecurities and other negative emotions that seep into the psyche with being overweight. Sudesna’s writing is fluid, concise and refreshingly honest. Reading the book is like listening to your best friend pour her heart out to you. This book is literally a social message and a cry for understanding and to be understood.
If I had the power I would make Just Me, the Sink & the Pot by Sudesna Ghosh
a compulsory reading in school, and for parents.
February 16, 2017
The name made me curious and I began to browse and there was no stopping. Sudeshna Ghosh's wierdly yet aptly titled book tells the story of a fat girl living in a society obsessed with slimness - where being thin is a standard of beauty. It is funny, poignant and wonderful - going over a teenager's life - her love for food and her furry toys, her fear to be seen eating and laughed at, her yearning to have a romance, to wear good clothes - just to be normal. Pamela, Sudeshna's heroine holds up a mirror for all of us and our small selves.
Very well written and timely. Just wish that the writer had given as more illustrations - like the one on the cover.
Very well written and timely. Just wish that the writer had given as more illustrations - like the one on the cover.
November 17, 2021
A book that drives home some hard truths
Reading this book brought back all the insecurities of high school. Though, I was not fat ,I was nerdy, bespectacled and had oiled hair.(!!). To be overlooked by your own peers is something I can relate too very well.
Sudesna had brought out the loneliness of Pam very well. It is heartbreaking to read Pam's struggles, specially when she is ignored by her family too.
My only issue with the book was that the end seemed a little rushed, I would have loved Pam to go back and give it back to her classmates!
Reading this book brought back all the insecurities of high school. Though, I was not fat ,I was nerdy, bespectacled and had oiled hair.(!!). To be overlooked by your own peers is something I can relate too very well.
Sudesna had brought out the loneliness of Pam very well. It is heartbreaking to read Pam's struggles, specially when she is ignored by her family too.
My only issue with the book was that the end seemed a little rushed, I would have loved Pam to go back and give it back to her classmates!
January 3, 2021
I may not have the exact problems as Pamela, but I kind of connected with her so much. This is the best of Sudesna Ghosh's stories I have ever read (out of the ones I have read) So so gripping. Amazing narration literally showing all the sides of Pamela.
Totally loved it.❤
Totally loved it.❤
March 12, 2022
I was caught by the title of this book. In our super politically correct world, I was dumb struck by the term fat used so openly on the cover and so often throughout the book. The story is an introspective confession of an eighteen year old Indian girl, going through the tough years of grade school and trying to fit in. It’s a candid look inside of a very unhappy teen with more than just the challenges of making it through the social maze of high school and battling her weight. She describes how she develops major issues with food, her difficulty relating to her family, her piers, and even potential friends. I likened it to the very popular Netflix series, Never Have I Ever, and I could almost see it like episodes in my mind. The story will make anyone who never quite fit in revisit the traumatic years of their social evolution, and hopefully come away unscathed. My heart broke for poor Pamela. kids can be so cruel without realizing the permanent effects of their actions. I wasn’t in Pamela’s shoes with weight challenges, but I felt a lot of similar misfit, awkward scenarios throughout my high school years. The book filled me with empathy for Pamela, and I too hoped for a couple extra chapters detailing her transition to college. A book about self awareness and climbing to achievements through changing perspective and accepting encouragement from others. I hope to see more empowering stories from Ghosh.
August 22, 2017
I was provided with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Pamela takes us through her journey across her teenage years, with all things that go with growing up as a teenager in today's world thrown in. Living in a world that's obsessed with classifying girls according to how they conform to the society's beauty standards, Pamela is struggling with figuring it all out. Body-shaming, low self-esteem, many bouts of loneliness, self-doubts, peer pressure, desperate attempts at fitting in -- Pamela goes through all of this, and she reminds us that Pamela is just all of us who've been through the roller-coaster days of our teenage lives.
This is a refreshing coming-of-age book, and I loved it right from page 1. This is the first book that I've read by the author, and her narrative is quite captivating. I loved the way how the author has used the first person narrative to its fullest advantage in this story, to showcase all the teemingly endless mind-talks that would go on in the mind of a teenager.
This book is a must-read for all teenagers, and for all parents, siblings and friends of teenagers. If you know a teenager that fits in with what Pamela may be going through, do make them read this.
Pamela takes us through her journey across her teenage years, with all things that go with growing up as a teenager in today's world thrown in. Living in a world that's obsessed with classifying girls according to how they conform to the society's beauty standards, Pamela is struggling with figuring it all out. Body-shaming, low self-esteem, many bouts of loneliness, self-doubts, peer pressure, desperate attempts at fitting in -- Pamela goes through all of this, and she reminds us that Pamela is just all of us who've been through the roller-coaster days of our teenage lives.
This is a refreshing coming-of-age book, and I loved it right from page 1. This is the first book that I've read by the author, and her narrative is quite captivating. I loved the way how the author has used the first person narrative to its fullest advantage in this story, to showcase all the teemingly endless mind-talks that would go on in the mind of a teenager.
This book is a must-read for all teenagers, and for all parents, siblings and friends of teenagers. If you know a teenager that fits in with what Pamela may be going through, do make them read this.
August 21, 2017
The author delves into the mind of Pamela, who has been perennially shamed for the way she looks, the way she talks, and, of course, the way she eats, so deeply that she has every nook and corner covered. She paints such a vivid image of the way Pamela’s emotions, her personality, and even her decisions are affected that I wanted to cry my heart out soon after I started reading the book.
When Pamela ends her relationship with Sumit, a guy who is very much like her, with a few ‘flaws’ of his own. I loved how that part of the story is written. Sudesna very beautifully brings out the complexes of how, because somebody is fat, their decisions aren’t their own.
And of course, there is Pamela’s own family, the little world she creates for pouring her heart out. The answers that she gets, the agreements and the contradictions, are beautifully written. If this does not tell how messed up a person can get after they body shamed, nothing will. Resonation, spot on!
Beautiful use of vocabulary and a decent pace are add-ons that make this book a page turner. I thought the narrative got a little slower towards the end and slightly repetitive too, but I am not minding that.
When Pamela ends her relationship with Sumit, a guy who is very much like her, with a few ‘flaws’ of his own. I loved how that part of the story is written. Sudesna very beautifully brings out the complexes of how, because somebody is fat, their decisions aren’t their own.
And of course, there is Pamela’s own family, the little world she creates for pouring her heart out. The answers that she gets, the agreements and the contradictions, are beautifully written. If this does not tell how messed up a person can get after they body shamed, nothing will. Resonation, spot on!
Beautiful use of vocabulary and a decent pace are add-ons that make this book a page turner. I thought the narrative got a little slower towards the end and slightly repetitive too, but I am not minding that.
September 29, 2018
This Book By SUDESNA ‘Sue’ Ghosh Is Very Different From Some Of Her Previous Books..That On One Hand Makes It Stand Apart But Simultaneously Is Not Everybody’s Cup Of Tea..Perhaps, Had It Not Been Fiction But Of Another Genre It Would Have Prepared The Reader For What Was To Come Between The Covers.
It Sounds Like A Personal Diary Which Perhaps It Is Intended To Be Of A Young Schoolgirl Who Is Body Shamed For Her Weight Issues & The Mental, Emotional Trauma She Is Forced To Undergo Right Through Her Growing Years Both At School As Also At Home.
Pamela’s Diary Reflects How A Child Undergoes Trauma At Various Levels Simply She Does Not Fit In And Her Health Issues Make Her Stand Out..And The Struggles She Is Forced Into To Get Accepted The Way She Has Shaped Out...For No Fault Of Hers!!
Seen Through The Eyes Of Pamela, This Book Is A Reflection On The Growing Years Of A Child And How She Is Scarred As She Is Surrounded By Loneliness & Bitterness As She Is Not Fitting In To The Mould Of Perceptions.
It Sounds Like A Personal Diary Which Perhaps It Is Intended To Be Of A Young Schoolgirl Who Is Body Shamed For Her Weight Issues & The Mental, Emotional Trauma She Is Forced To Undergo Right Through Her Growing Years Both At School As Also At Home.
Pamela’s Diary Reflects How A Child Undergoes Trauma At Various Levels Simply She Does Not Fit In And Her Health Issues Make Her Stand Out..And The Struggles She Is Forced Into To Get Accepted The Way She Has Shaped Out...For No Fault Of Hers!!
Seen Through The Eyes Of Pamela, This Book Is A Reflection On The Growing Years Of A Child And How She Is Scarred As She Is Surrounded By Loneliness & Bitterness As She Is Not Fitting In To The Mould Of Perceptions.
January 28, 2022
If you are bad it's ohk. But you can't be fat it's a crime
Can A Fat Girl Get A First Kiss by Sudesna Ghosh.
First of all I choose this book because of the tittle. It's as if calling me 😉 k hey you i m your story come read me 😊🤠
Yes a beautiful story of a healthy girl, her struggle with school, friends, family, relatives, shopping, food and what not. It feels so bad to be overlooked by your family n friends.
Pamela's mental status, her struggle and insecurities are just what every girl in her situation has felt for sure.
You know most struggled part of healthy/ chubby people's life is getting the dress of our size plus the variety. Everytime it's sorry apka size me thoda variety cum hai🙈🙈🙈.
It felt as if I m reading my diary where I have mentioned similar thoughts of mine which I have experienced in my life. 😂😂
If you are fluffy ( not fat ohk), chubby, cute then go for it girls it's just what we all need to read n feel good.
All slim ones out there you also read as there are many references for you people and from you people too.
A great read ☺️
Can A Fat Girl Get A First Kiss by Sudesna Ghosh.
First of all I choose this book because of the tittle. It's as if calling me 😉 k hey you i m your story come read me 😊🤠
Yes a beautiful story of a healthy girl, her struggle with school, friends, family, relatives, shopping, food and what not. It feels so bad to be overlooked by your family n friends.
Pamela's mental status, her struggle and insecurities are just what every girl in her situation has felt for sure.
You know most struggled part of healthy/ chubby people's life is getting the dress of our size plus the variety. Everytime it's sorry apka size me thoda variety cum hai🙈🙈🙈.
It felt as if I m reading my diary where I have mentioned similar thoughts of mine which I have experienced in my life. 😂😂
If you are fluffy ( not fat ohk), chubby, cute then go for it girls it's just what we all need to read n feel good.
All slim ones out there you also read as there are many references for you people and from you people too.
A great read ☺️
November 13, 2021
Can a Fat Girl Get a First Kiss? (previously called Just me, the Sink & the Pot) is a story about a young girl called Pamela who is now looking forward to her future, but tells us she had a difficult time growing up because of her weight. Pamela tells us about all the spiteful things her class mates have said and done to her over the years, how she was afraid to eat in front of other people, how she longed for friends, and how even her own sister, Mona, thought Pamela was beneath contempt because of her weight.
I was expecting another amusing and uplifting story told in Ms Ghosh's gentle style, but found myself empathising with Pamela, and feeling rather angry on her behalf at the way others thought it was acceptable to treat her, in the way that they were, just because she was fat.
I really enjoyed this short story, although I felt Pamela's sister's behaviour at the end, was unexpected and a little contrived, designed to bring the story to a satisfactory close.
I was expecting another amusing and uplifting story told in Ms Ghosh's gentle style, but found myself empathising with Pamela, and feeling rather angry on her behalf at the way others thought it was acceptable to treat her, in the way that they were, just because she was fat.
I really enjoyed this short story, although I felt Pamela's sister's behaviour at the end, was unexpected and a little contrived, designed to bring the story to a satisfactory close.
June 1, 2026
“See, fat girls don’t make unreasonable demands. We couldn’t.”
2.5. Edit: changed to 3.
Unfortunately, Pamela did cause a lot of her problems, but when you think about how her life was at home and in school, you start to understand. I feel like the ending lacked something because we went from thinking about giving pills to skinny girls to celebrating the publishing news (mind you, her witch of a sister and then her parents invaded her privacy). The psychologist also diagnosed her with something that explained her thought process throughout the book. Pamela is not really a likeable character but she’s easy to relate to. I just felt really sad for her because kids can be so mean and it’s like they don’t think about how their words or actions can affect other people. This was definitely an interesting read. Not really sure why I’m not rating it higher. It will come to me months to years from now lol.
2.5. Edit: changed to 3.
Unfortunately, Pamela did cause a lot of her problems, but when you think about how her life was at home and in school, you start to understand. I feel like the ending lacked something because we went from thinking about giving pills to skinny girls to celebrating the publishing news (mind you, her witch of a sister and then her parents invaded her privacy). The psychologist also diagnosed her with something that explained her thought process throughout the book. Pamela is not really a likeable character but she’s easy to relate to. I just felt really sad for her because kids can be so mean and it’s like they don’t think about how their words or actions can affect other people. This was definitely an interesting read. Not really sure why I’m not rating it higher. It will come to me months to years from now lol.
September 17, 2017
An unusual title and a daring story! Written in first person – and thus even more relatable – Pamela’s story is the story of many girls around the world. A story I have lived in part, too. A story that needs to be told because unfortunately fat-shaming is still a huge issue. I enjoyed the simple style combined with the myriad of emotions. It was as if I really got a look into the protagonist’s head and heart, as if I was there and witnessed all the shame and struggle and her ultimate victory. I compliment the author for taking on this taboo topic and for presenting it in such an understandable way that doesn’t gloss anything over and also is an inspiring tale of strength that sometimes reads like a diary.
June 21, 2017
Kids can be the worst sort of bullies and high schools the worst torture grounds.
Just me, the sink and the pot is the story of Pamela who leads a miserable life both inside and outside the school campus due to body shaming. She is fat and is teased by all. Every bullying incident makes her more insecure. She doesn't find emotional support from anyone. Not even from her family. She has a 'special' group of friends though.
Mostly she ends up crying her heart out inside bathrooms. Hence the title.
The author has beautifully described the emotions, dreams and heartbreaks of the teenager.
I liked how it all worked out for Pamela in the end.
Just me, the sink and the pot is the story of Pamela who leads a miserable life both inside and outside the school campus due to body shaming. She is fat and is teased by all. Every bullying incident makes her more insecure. She doesn't find emotional support from anyone. Not even from her family. She has a 'special' group of friends though.
Mostly she ends up crying her heart out inside bathrooms. Hence the title.
The author has beautifully described the emotions, dreams and heartbreaks of the teenager.
I liked how it all worked out for Pamela in the end.
August 9, 2017
Overall it a read that makes one ponder upon. It makes us realize the harsh facts of the society and how cruel we can get to these innocent minds by our own set rules with regards to the physical appearances.
October 28, 2018
We live in a society of man-made beauty standards and those who don't abide by it are subjected to continuous bullying. While others who do are subjected to symbolic violence. This book is a testimony to that. An important topic well presented. It is by far my favourite book from the author.
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