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Appetite
Because everyone hungers for something... Food and two appetites the modern world stimulates, but also the ones we are expected to keep under control. But what happens when we don't? Embarking on an affair, lonely wife and mother Naomi blossoms sexually in a false spring while David, the fattest boy at the local comprehensive and best friend of her son, struggles to overcome bullying and the apathy of his divorced mother. David finally starts to learn about the mechanisms of appetite through a science project set by his intelligent but jaded teacher, Matthew. David's brave efforts to change himself open Matthew's eyes to his activist girlfriend's dangerous plans to blow up VitSip, a local energy-drink company where Naomi works. At the mercy of their appetites, this exciting debut novel shows that some hungers can never be satisfied...
481 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2018
4 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Anita Cassidy
5 books12 followersThe snow goose need not bathe itself to make itself white. Neither need you do anything but be yourself - Lao Tzu
I am a writer, a relationship radical, a mother, a daughter, a sister, an aunt and a friend. I am also a lover of old books, new music and (mostly) clean food.
Whilst I understand the limitations of labels, I do identify as bi-sexual, polyamorous and kinky.
Above all else, I am curious about everything: about life, about learning and about love.
I am a writer, a relationship radical, a mother, a daughter, a sister, an aunt and a friend. I am also a lover of old books, new music and (mostly) clean food.
Whilst I understand the limitations of labels, I do identify as bi-sexual, polyamorous and kinky.
Above all else, I am curious about everything: about life, about learning and about love.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 5, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Appetite is a fascinating piece of fictional work. The plot follows three individuals who each have a different ‘appetite’,(an addiction).
Teenager David is overweight, not just slightly, but massively overweight. He is the fattest kid in school. He gets his pleasure in life from fizzy drinks, sweets and chocolate bars. Because of his size he gets bullied quite a lot, but whilst not showing any emotion on the outside, he hurts on the inside. The more upset he gets, the more he eats. The more he despises himself, the more he eats. He does have one lovely friend, the skinniest kid at school, James.
Naomi is a married, middle aged woman, and James mum, whose life is a never ending groundhog day. She wants more from life and is envious of others who are still having fun. She also has sexual urges and it doesn’t take long before someone taps into them. From what starts off as an innocent online chat with her friend’s partner, turns into a full blown affair based on sex. She also works for a company that makes energy drinks.
Matthew is the high school science teacher at the school David and James attend. He has just returned from visiting Brazil, where the trip has opened his eyes to the different way of life over there. He feels like he wants to make a difference back home. Meeting Polly, an activist, gives him that push to try and make a difference, but how far is he willing to go for the girl he has fallen in love with, especially when she want to take on the company Naomi works for?
Appetite is a multidimensional book covering a lot of subjects, and would be great for book clubs to read and discuss, as it challenges the readers to face up to their own appetites. It has been intelligently written by an author, who has clearly done her research.
At the beginning, it seems like a story about three completely independent individuals. As the story progresses, you realise that their lives are interwoven in some way or another.
The book is told in snippets of time, with each chapter around two weeks long. It begins on Monday 7th January and ends on Sunday 18th August. This time framing seemed to move the book along at a nice pace. It also helped me to visualise the story better, as it gave it an authenticity, knowing with ease what season of the year the scenes were in, what the weather would normally be like, events that were happening, etc.
This is a book that makes you think, not only as you read, but once you have closed it for the last time too. It combines hard hitting, sometime complex issues, with a fantastic character driven story. Each character felt alive as the book was written with such honesty about how these ‘appetites’ affected their lives. The author also gives you an insight into why these appetites existed.
This is a book that had me hooked from the very beginning. There are so many levels to this story, more that just the main characters struggles. This book is definitely worth your time and money.
Appetite is a fascinating piece of fictional work. The plot follows three individuals who each have a different ‘appetite’,(an addiction).
Teenager David is overweight, not just slightly, but massively overweight. He is the fattest kid in school. He gets his pleasure in life from fizzy drinks, sweets and chocolate bars. Because of his size he gets bullied quite a lot, but whilst not showing any emotion on the outside, he hurts on the inside. The more upset he gets, the more he eats. The more he despises himself, the more he eats. He does have one lovely friend, the skinniest kid at school, James.
Naomi is a married, middle aged woman, and James mum, whose life is a never ending groundhog day. She wants more from life and is envious of others who are still having fun. She also has sexual urges and it doesn’t take long before someone taps into them. From what starts off as an innocent online chat with her friend’s partner, turns into a full blown affair based on sex. She also works for a company that makes energy drinks.
Matthew is the high school science teacher at the school David and James attend. He has just returned from visiting Brazil, where the trip has opened his eyes to the different way of life over there. He feels like he wants to make a difference back home. Meeting Polly, an activist, gives him that push to try and make a difference, but how far is he willing to go for the girl he has fallen in love with, especially when she want to take on the company Naomi works for?
Appetite is a multidimensional book covering a lot of subjects, and would be great for book clubs to read and discuss, as it challenges the readers to face up to their own appetites. It has been intelligently written by an author, who has clearly done her research.
At the beginning, it seems like a story about three completely independent individuals. As the story progresses, you realise that their lives are interwoven in some way or another.
The book is told in snippets of time, with each chapter around two weeks long. It begins on Monday 7th January and ends on Sunday 18th August. This time framing seemed to move the book along at a nice pace. It also helped me to visualise the story better, as it gave it an authenticity, knowing with ease what season of the year the scenes were in, what the weather would normally be like, events that were happening, etc.
This is a book that makes you think, not only as you read, but once you have closed it for the last time too. It combines hard hitting, sometime complex issues, with a fantastic character driven story. Each character felt alive as the book was written with such honesty about how these ‘appetites’ affected their lives. The author also gives you an insight into why these appetites existed.
This is a book that had me hooked from the very beginning. There are so many levels to this story, more that just the main characters struggles. This book is definitely worth your time and money.
January 22, 2018
Food plus sex = FANTASTIC FICTION!
*No spoilers*
Appetite is a thought provoking, delicious piece of art from Anita Cassidy that follows three individual, well-developed characters – David, who’s overweight and still lured by food; Naomi, who’s the everyday mother hungry for more than her bore of a life (who’s story alone I’d love to read time and time again); Mathew, who desires to make a difference but is torn between his wants and needs.
Appetite captivating, enticing, and before I knew it, hours had flown past and I was still glued to the pages. I’m an extremely picky reader, so when the clock strikes 4am and I’m still lost in a book, I know it’s an extraordinary read ;-)
I can’t wait to see what else Anita Cassidy brings to the world of books. She has fast become a ‘one click’ author for me.
*No spoilers*
Appetite is a thought provoking, delicious piece of art from Anita Cassidy that follows three individual, well-developed characters – David, who’s overweight and still lured by food; Naomi, who’s the everyday mother hungry for more than her bore of a life (who’s story alone I’d love to read time and time again); Mathew, who desires to make a difference but is torn between his wants and needs.
Appetite captivating, enticing, and before I knew it, hours had flown past and I was still glued to the pages. I’m an extremely picky reader, so when the clock strikes 4am and I’m still lost in a book, I know it’s an extraordinary read ;-)
I can’t wait to see what else Anita Cassidy brings to the world of books. She has fast become a ‘one click’ author for me.
January 13, 2018
I am taking part in a promotional blog tour for this book, see my full post here!
https://marriedtobooksreviewsandblog....
REVIEW: Appetite was definitely a book out of my comfort zone. I don’t really read a lot of adult fiction and when I do, it does take a while for me to get settled since I mainly review YA. There are multiple POVs in the novel and are clearly separated out by the names of the main characters. David is a high school student, getting bullied because of his weight, Naomi works for an energy drink company and has a son who is friends with David and Matthew who is one of David’s teachers. Their paths cross at various points throughout.
Naomi’s journey is looking for a solid romance so spends most of the time chatting to guys and arranging dates. David deals with his parents relationship breakdown and then the desire to start eating more healthy foods and not end up like his mother who has arranged a gastric band. Matthew is struggling to keep the students engaged and motivated in their learning and is also dealing with a break-up. Appetite contains topics such as Food, Sex, Peer Pressure and the choice between Right or Wrong. For readers over the age of eighteen looking for a book that tackles everyday issues and the power of thinking, this is for you.
https://marriedtobooksreviewsandblog....
REVIEW: Appetite was definitely a book out of my comfort zone. I don’t really read a lot of adult fiction and when I do, it does take a while for me to get settled since I mainly review YA. There are multiple POVs in the novel and are clearly separated out by the names of the main characters. David is a high school student, getting bullied because of his weight, Naomi works for an energy drink company and has a son who is friends with David and Matthew who is one of David’s teachers. Their paths cross at various points throughout.
Naomi’s journey is looking for a solid romance so spends most of the time chatting to guys and arranging dates. David deals with his parents relationship breakdown and then the desire to start eating more healthy foods and not end up like his mother who has arranged a gastric band. Matthew is struggling to keep the students engaged and motivated in their learning and is also dealing with a break-up. Appetite contains topics such as Food, Sex, Peer Pressure and the choice between Right or Wrong. For readers over the age of eighteen looking for a book that tackles everyday issues and the power of thinking, this is for you.
March 26, 2018
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
DNF'd
This might be a case of it's not you, it's me but I'm really sure.
The way it's written is quite dry, too dry for me at least. I wasn't interested in any of the main characters. The only one I really connected with was David and I dreaded reading about him because I knew that meant having to withstand reading the fat shaming made towards him, and it wasn't just a snide mark here or there, it was brutal.
David experiences far worse bullying over his weight just in the first chapter than I have in my entire life and and I was overweight my whole high school life and most of my adulthood so far. It was just so cruel and I really struggled to get through it.
I don't doubt that it is real to life though because I know just how cruel people can be and perhaps its worse over in America? I think it's good for people who aren't fat, and have never been fat to perhaps read it to better understand what it's like but I wouldn't advise actual fat people to read it.
I didn't really like that they went with the stereotype that fat people eat and eat and eat. I never would have raced to the toilet just to eat a chocolate bar between classes or chosen what food my meal would be just based on which gave you the bigger serving but I did relate to doing your best to avoid being seen getting seconds or not admitting to being hungry because you're worried what people would think.
I struggled to connect with Naomi for the same reasons I usually struggle to connect with any character that's middle aged, she's married and has kids and seems to be doing well in life and is obviously being tempted by an affair. I just can't connect to that as someone who is only 24, doesn't want kids and isn't really that interested in the whole marriage thing either and I quite averse to affair plots. I just don't understand why you wouldn't just leave your partner if you were thinking about wanting to have sex with someone else.
I didn't really connect with Matthew at either but I can't really pinpoint why.
I just don't think I was the main demographic for this book, and that's okay.
If you do like adult fiction, and everything I've mentioned above then this book is probably for you. Unfortunately it just wasn't for me.
I post reviews on my new blog now! You'll also find a whole bunch of different bookish things like Tag Tuesday, hauls, TBR updates and wrap ups. If you're interested please check it out!
Today, he thought, should be a good day. Today, I am feeling unusually angry. These days, the says when he felt this rage, were the easy ones. It was the sad days he found the hardest to bear. Days when the sadness was there when he woke up in the morning and followed him until nightfall like a weary shadow. The sadness was viscous, a tar pool that pulled at him, wanting to drag him under.
DNF'd
This might be a case of it's not you, it's me but I'm really sure.
The way it's written is quite dry, too dry for me at least. I wasn't interested in any of the main characters. The only one I really connected with was David and I dreaded reading about him because I knew that meant having to withstand reading the fat shaming made towards him, and it wasn't just a snide mark here or there, it was brutal.
David experiences far worse bullying over his weight just in the first chapter than I have in my entire life and and I was overweight my whole high school life and most of my adulthood so far. It was just so cruel and I really struggled to get through it.
I don't doubt that it is real to life though because I know just how cruel people can be and perhaps its worse over in America? I think it's good for people who aren't fat, and have never been fat to perhaps read it to better understand what it's like but I wouldn't advise actual fat people to read it.
I didn't really like that they went with the stereotype that fat people eat and eat and eat. I never would have raced to the toilet just to eat a chocolate bar between classes or chosen what food my meal would be just based on which gave you the bigger serving but I did relate to doing your best to avoid being seen getting seconds or not admitting to being hungry because you're worried what people would think.
I struggled to connect with Naomi for the same reasons I usually struggle to connect with any character that's middle aged, she's married and has kids and seems to be doing well in life and is obviously being tempted by an affair. I just can't connect to that as someone who is only 24, doesn't want kids and isn't really that interested in the whole marriage thing either and I quite averse to affair plots. I just don't understand why you wouldn't just leave your partner if you were thinking about wanting to have sex with someone else.
I didn't really connect with Matthew at either but I can't really pinpoint why.
I just don't think I was the main demographic for this book, and that's okay.
If you do like adult fiction, and everything I've mentioned above then this book is probably for you. Unfortunately it just wasn't for me.
He thought, you might hate me but, believe me, I will always hate myself more.
I post reviews on my new blog now! You'll also find a whole bunch of different bookish things like Tag Tuesday, hauls, TBR updates and wrap ups. If you're interested please check it out!
January 14, 2018
I loved the idea of this book about food addiction. One my favourite lines is on the way to school David who is the fattest boy at the local comprehensive, he quickly grabbed a large bag of peanut M & Ms and then shuffled over to pay. He shoved them into his bag for later then he he eat a snickers bar. Oh no David hasn't finished eating yet he then eats an Aero in four quick bites. To finish off David then drinks a bottle of Coke. Break time David eats a twix and his friend James eats doughnuts. The character David always stuffing himself with chocolate reminded me of Roland Browning from Grange Hill. Kids are eating too much sugar these days with some being over weight and teeth decaying and now the advice has been given to limit children's sugar treats to just one snack a day, I do wonder how many parents will follow the new guidelines, to help their children not eat so much sugar. Even families sit watching TV eating a whole pizza to themselves followed by fizzy drinks and chocolate. The paperback Appetite is a very enjoyable read I highly recommend it.
January 3, 2018
As soon as I spotted this book I was absolutely fascinated, the whole concept about what your personal appetite might entail. All three subjects are potentially full of controversy but also multi-layered to the extent that there must be so many views.
Appetite covers sex, food and change .. all areas that have had some influence on my life at various points which enabled me to fully embrace the story and relate quite strongly to the characters.
David, the ‘fat’ kid, Naomi the ‘bored’ woman and Matthew the ‘unsure’ teacher. While these are the main people involved they all have family/friends playing a huge part and I like the way that all are connected to some degree that makes it feel totally ‘normal’. Appetite gives an insight into how ordinary folk going about their daily lives interact with each other as well as deal with internal conflict.
The message of the fat boy who shovels food into his face could easily have been cliched the author though has cleverly woven a valid research eating change of life plan into it that actually explains the biology behind obesity. Should we feel sorry for the child’s mother for feeding him this way while she deals with her own issues or can we blame advertising? Discuss!
I didn’t particularly bond with Matthew at the start but as the book progresses and his want/need to change to be a positive role model, particularly for David endeared him to me.
Naomi was the lady who intrigued me the most, on one hand I could relate completely to her feelings of excitement and the craziness of an internet liaison but on the flip-side wanted to shake her and point out she has a husband and son who need her. At times she was incredibly selfish and I’m quite annoyed at myself for slightly condoning her behaviour while I could see it made her ‘happy’. Perhaps it wasn’t what she bargained for but it made for great reading and the author completely ‘got’ her actions and emotions down to a fine art.
Were all these characters weak willed or did they actually have an addiction to their respective desires? It’s a book that keeps you engrossed, opens your eyes and certainly makes you think. I suspect it’s going to be one of those books that each reader identifies with at least one character and even if you have no personal experience of the feelings it’s highly entertaining. It’s also a contender for re-reading, because even though I know the outcome I think there is plenty of information in it that would be helpful next time round.
Appetite is a refreshing change to a lot of books I have read lately and I really look forward to what Anita writes next.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Anna for my copy. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Appetite covers sex, food and change .. all areas that have had some influence on my life at various points which enabled me to fully embrace the story and relate quite strongly to the characters.
David, the ‘fat’ kid, Naomi the ‘bored’ woman and Matthew the ‘unsure’ teacher. While these are the main people involved they all have family/friends playing a huge part and I like the way that all are connected to some degree that makes it feel totally ‘normal’. Appetite gives an insight into how ordinary folk going about their daily lives interact with each other as well as deal with internal conflict.
The message of the fat boy who shovels food into his face could easily have been cliched the author though has cleverly woven a valid research eating change of life plan into it that actually explains the biology behind obesity. Should we feel sorry for the child’s mother for feeding him this way while she deals with her own issues or can we blame advertising? Discuss!
I didn’t particularly bond with Matthew at the start but as the book progresses and his want/need to change to be a positive role model, particularly for David endeared him to me.
Naomi was the lady who intrigued me the most, on one hand I could relate completely to her feelings of excitement and the craziness of an internet liaison but on the flip-side wanted to shake her and point out she has a husband and son who need her. At times she was incredibly selfish and I’m quite annoyed at myself for slightly condoning her behaviour while I could see it made her ‘happy’. Perhaps it wasn’t what she bargained for but it made for great reading and the author completely ‘got’ her actions and emotions down to a fine art.
Were all these characters weak willed or did they actually have an addiction to their respective desires? It’s a book that keeps you engrossed, opens your eyes and certainly makes you think. I suspect it’s going to be one of those books that each reader identifies with at least one character and even if you have no personal experience of the feelings it’s highly entertaining. It’s also a contender for re-reading, because even though I know the outcome I think there is plenty of information in it that would be helpful next time round.
Appetite is a refreshing change to a lot of books I have read lately and I really look forward to what Anita writes next.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Anna for my copy. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
January 21, 2018
Appetite not only follows the live of David but also of Naomi and Matthew. I caught on very quickly that these three parties have their own individual problems but there’s also a larger picture and they each represent a certain side to one core problem. Naomi works at VitSip, a company about to launch a new drink which contains more sugar than is desirable, Matthew takes on the role of nearly activist, he has a new friend who crusades against the big companies’ sugar production and he gets sucked into her cause, because she’s so passionate about it and he wants to feel passionate about something as well, and David, well David is who it’s all about clearly, he’s the victim here of all that sugar, he’s consuming sugary edibles all day long.
I came to follow David’s struggles with his food-obsession, Naomi’s sex-obsessed chats and Matthew’s problems with the new love of his life. To be really honest, I couldn’t really connect with Naomi and I did have questions about her marriage with Scott and how she could carry on like this. She didn’t even feel guilty nor does she want to go for a new lifestyle. Matthew came across a little weak and when he meets Polly I immediately asked myself questions too. Can she even be really interested in him if all she ever thinks about is her own cause, her passion for Snap Out of It?
No the person that I held closest to my heart was David. Honestly, I never had such an insight into the life thrown at an overweight person. He didn’t win me over instantly though, at the start of the novel I was still pretty judgemental.. someone who starts to eat chocolate bars and drinks cola before school even starts, no wonder he’s fat… but then I also felt all the insults, the stares, the guilt and shame he felt on a daily basis and I came to notice that the snacks and sugars are really pushed onto him. The advertising everywhere, his own mother who struggles with obesitas as well are obstacles that I didn’t see at first but I was very much made aware of while reading. What would it take to change this? Does the answer lie in the hands of the companies, in those of the protesters and activists perhaps or is it all up to young David to make the necessary change?
This novel is called Appetite but it could be called Obsession because all these characters are quite obsessed, thinking every minute of every day about one thing. Appetite lured me in and had me eating out of the palm of its hand, it was an exploration and a very enjoyable journey with an important message, like Aristotle said: “moderation in all things”. Very thought-provoking!
I came to follow David’s struggles with his food-obsession, Naomi’s sex-obsessed chats and Matthew’s problems with the new love of his life. To be really honest, I couldn’t really connect with Naomi and I did have questions about her marriage with Scott and how she could carry on like this. She didn’t even feel guilty nor does she want to go for a new lifestyle. Matthew came across a little weak and when he meets Polly I immediately asked myself questions too. Can she even be really interested in him if all she ever thinks about is her own cause, her passion for Snap Out of It?
No the person that I held closest to my heart was David. Honestly, I never had such an insight into the life thrown at an overweight person. He didn’t win me over instantly though, at the start of the novel I was still pretty judgemental.. someone who starts to eat chocolate bars and drinks cola before school even starts, no wonder he’s fat… but then I also felt all the insults, the stares, the guilt and shame he felt on a daily basis and I came to notice that the snacks and sugars are really pushed onto him. The advertising everywhere, his own mother who struggles with obesitas as well are obstacles that I didn’t see at first but I was very much made aware of while reading. What would it take to change this? Does the answer lie in the hands of the companies, in those of the protesters and activists perhaps or is it all up to young David to make the necessary change?
This novel is called Appetite but it could be called Obsession because all these characters are quite obsessed, thinking every minute of every day about one thing. Appetite lured me in and had me eating out of the palm of its hand, it was an exploration and a very enjoyable journey with an important message, like Aristotle said: “moderation in all things”. Very thought-provoking!
January 29, 2018
Many thanks to the author for sending this my way!
Appetite by Anita Cassidy is a book all about desire and hunger, and the way it manifests in different ways within different people. It delves into what can happen when your appetite runs away from you and goes unchecked. When your yearning for something more takes over your life. And the internal struggles that we all go through in an effort to be seen and heard, wanted and loved, fulfilled and sated.
The book follows three different people combating three very different hungers. David is a young teen struggling with being extremely overweight. Angry and discontent with the way he feels day in and day out, he is attempting to live in a home and a body that is smothering him. Naomi is a wife, mother and businesswoman in her early 40's whose life has become rote and monotonous. When her dormant sex-drive is awakened by a young coworker's husband, the desire becomes so strong it may burn up her entire life. And Matthew is a teacher who is disillusioned with the impact he's making on the world, and hungry for change...a change in the world that he's actively taking part in.
All three hungers are different, and yet the same. The three character's lives intertwine and are woven into an amazing tale of desire run rampant, and hunger managed and eventually taken under control...or not.
I found the whole thing incredibly fascinating, and was hooked from very early in the story. I think this book would make a FABULOUS book club selection because it makes you uncomfortable, in that it really makes you think so much about the unconscious need for fulfillment in our lives. How that NEED can manifest into something toxic if left unchecked.
Anita Cassidy wove an incredibly well-written novel full of complex characters, both the main three and their supporting cast. And a story that knocked my socks off. I highly recommend this book. At 457 pages, it wasn't a short and fast read...but was well worth every second I spent curled up on the couch with it! This is a very smart book, one that will probably have me thinking about it for quite some time...and I love books like that!
You can find all of my reviews at www.tomesandtequila.com
Appetite by Anita Cassidy is a book all about desire and hunger, and the way it manifests in different ways within different people. It delves into what can happen when your appetite runs away from you and goes unchecked. When your yearning for something more takes over your life. And the internal struggles that we all go through in an effort to be seen and heard, wanted and loved, fulfilled and sated.
The book follows three different people combating three very different hungers. David is a young teen struggling with being extremely overweight. Angry and discontent with the way he feels day in and day out, he is attempting to live in a home and a body that is smothering him. Naomi is a wife, mother and businesswoman in her early 40's whose life has become rote and monotonous. When her dormant sex-drive is awakened by a young coworker's husband, the desire becomes so strong it may burn up her entire life. And Matthew is a teacher who is disillusioned with the impact he's making on the world, and hungry for change...a change in the world that he's actively taking part in.
All three hungers are different, and yet the same. The three character's lives intertwine and are woven into an amazing tale of desire run rampant, and hunger managed and eventually taken under control...or not.
I found the whole thing incredibly fascinating, and was hooked from very early in the story. I think this book would make a FABULOUS book club selection because it makes you uncomfortable, in that it really makes you think so much about the unconscious need for fulfillment in our lives. How that NEED can manifest into something toxic if left unchecked.
Anita Cassidy wove an incredibly well-written novel full of complex characters, both the main three and their supporting cast. And a story that knocked my socks off. I highly recommend this book. At 457 pages, it wasn't a short and fast read...but was well worth every second I spent curled up on the couch with it! This is a very smart book, one that will probably have me thinking about it for quite some time...and I love books like that!
You can find all of my reviews at www.tomesandtequila.com
January 9, 2018
When we read the word "Appetite" we relate it to a desire; to food, passion, change... but do we really control the impulses to this need or the need controls us?
This is the story of David, Naomi and Matthew and how their appetite control their lives, but the question we should ask is do they want their desires controlled or they like being moved by their impulses?
This book has been an entertaining but at the same time opening eyes read, because we really don't think we pay enough attentions to our desires or why we have them. Are our passions healthy or they make us worse persons? And the most important think, is it worth to let our deep desires flow without any control? All our characters are being controlled by their passions for good or bad, but after reading their stories we will understand that it's not easy to face off our faults or even try to control our desires, and of course they will always have the possibility to fall again...
I am sure if you read this book you will feel identified with some of the characters, because they have their faults, yes, but at the same time, their dreams are real and human...
David, a fat school boy, really fat, that all his life turns around the feel and moods when he eats. And we have to ask, how can food dictate a person's life?
Naomi is tired of his life, she feels her husband is boring and doesn't pay enough attention to her son James... Her addiction will show us that no matter how perfect we think a life can be, there's always more behind our eyesight.
Matthew senses his life has to improve after a trip to Brazil, but were to start? How can he change his life? He is my favourite character, not just how he changes his life but how he understands that being a teacher means more than teaching the lessons but also to help their students when they need it.
This had been a great read, I highly recommend it and the characters story will be with me for a long time.
Do you have any appetite?
This is the story of David, Naomi and Matthew and how their appetite control their lives, but the question we should ask is do they want their desires controlled or they like being moved by their impulses?
This book has been an entertaining but at the same time opening eyes read, because we really don't think we pay enough attentions to our desires or why we have them. Are our passions healthy or they make us worse persons? And the most important think, is it worth to let our deep desires flow without any control? All our characters are being controlled by their passions for good or bad, but after reading their stories we will understand that it's not easy to face off our faults or even try to control our desires, and of course they will always have the possibility to fall again...
I am sure if you read this book you will feel identified with some of the characters, because they have their faults, yes, but at the same time, their dreams are real and human...
David, a fat school boy, really fat, that all his life turns around the feel and moods when he eats. And we have to ask, how can food dictate a person's life?
Naomi is tired of his life, she feels her husband is boring and doesn't pay enough attention to her son James... Her addiction will show us that no matter how perfect we think a life can be, there's always more behind our eyesight.
Matthew senses his life has to improve after a trip to Brazil, but were to start? How can he change his life? He is my favourite character, not just how he changes his life but how he understands that being a teacher means more than teaching the lessons but also to help their students when they need it.
This had been a great read, I highly recommend it and the characters story will be with me for a long time.
Do you have any appetite?
January 25, 2018
Appetite is the ideal title for this book.
appetite
noun
a natural desire to satisfy a bodily need, especially for food.
"he has a healthy appetite"
synonyms: hunger, ravenousness, hungriness, need for food;
a strong desire or liking for something.
"her appetite for life"
synonyms: craving, longing, yearning, hankering, hunger, thirst, passion, relish, lust, love, zest, gusto, avidity, ardour;
We have three protagonists here. David is a 14 year old boy who is extremely overweight. He knows he overeats, he's almost become a part of the settee that he spends so much time sat on, he hates himself, so why can't he stop? Naomi is a woman in a rut. Her son, James, is David's best friend. She loves her husband but wants, no needs, more. And Matthew is David's science teacher. He likes his job but has an increasing feeling of not making any difference to anything. But the project that he sets for his class might just make a difference, to him and to at least one of his pupils.
I thought Appetite was a perfectly observed look at greed, desire, need, want. As someone with a poor relationship with food I found it very easy to empathise with David most of all, but I actually understood how each of them felt. Naomi's appetite is for something more visceral than food. Hers is a desire to be wanted and this leads her to seek the adventure she craves away from home. Her sections were quite raw, quite animalistic. And I did like Matthew, a man who really could be one of those inspirational teachers. But David and James, I think, were my real favourite characters. For teenage boys, they were actually extremely likeable.
We follow the characters through around eight months of a year, from January to August. The changes they go through, the greater understandings of their needs. The author has done something clever here. She's worked hunger and desire into a storyline that works incredibly well, and she's showed it in different ways. I marked this passage which is about Naomi and her need to get back to the computer to talk to a man on there:
"It was the anticipation, the thrill of the forbidden, and she knew that the next morning, the moment she was up and in front of the computer, she would be back there, indulging again, binging and gorging on his words, feasting on his need for her, stuffing herself with it until she felt sick. Getting ready for the next time."
I marked this because I thought it was a clever use of words that would normally be associated with food, but in fact they were used about Naomi's need for a sexual fix. It just highlights that appetite is not just about food. Yet, this is the woman who says, about a friend she has just met for the first time in years and who has put on an enormous amount of weight:
"'And, really, how hard is it to cut back? How hard is it to change habits? Bad habits?'"
It was ironic that she didn't see the similarities with her own situation. And it's so easy to judge, isn't it?
At 470 pages, this is no lightweight of a book. But I didn't want it to end. I found it thoroughly engrossing. It really hit the nail on the head for me - I 'got' it. It was one of those books that spoke to me personally in many ways. It tackles many issues in a non-issue making way, if that makes sense. It's not a rant but a look at how a need for something can control your life. I found myself wishing there was somebody else who was reading it who I could chat to about it. It would be great for book groups as there is so much to discuss and debate.
The writing is superb, it made me think, it shocked me, it thrilled me. Cassidy's writing is completely honest. It's probably not for everybody, but this reader loved it.
appetite
noun
a natural desire to satisfy a bodily need, especially for food.
"he has a healthy appetite"
synonyms: hunger, ravenousness, hungriness, need for food;
a strong desire or liking for something.
"her appetite for life"
synonyms: craving, longing, yearning, hankering, hunger, thirst, passion, relish, lust, love, zest, gusto, avidity, ardour;
We have three protagonists here. David is a 14 year old boy who is extremely overweight. He knows he overeats, he's almost become a part of the settee that he spends so much time sat on, he hates himself, so why can't he stop? Naomi is a woman in a rut. Her son, James, is David's best friend. She loves her husband but wants, no needs, more. And Matthew is David's science teacher. He likes his job but has an increasing feeling of not making any difference to anything. But the project that he sets for his class might just make a difference, to him and to at least one of his pupils.
I thought Appetite was a perfectly observed look at greed, desire, need, want. As someone with a poor relationship with food I found it very easy to empathise with David most of all, but I actually understood how each of them felt. Naomi's appetite is for something more visceral than food. Hers is a desire to be wanted and this leads her to seek the adventure she craves away from home. Her sections were quite raw, quite animalistic. And I did like Matthew, a man who really could be one of those inspirational teachers. But David and James, I think, were my real favourite characters. For teenage boys, they were actually extremely likeable.
We follow the characters through around eight months of a year, from January to August. The changes they go through, the greater understandings of their needs. The author has done something clever here. She's worked hunger and desire into a storyline that works incredibly well, and she's showed it in different ways. I marked this passage which is about Naomi and her need to get back to the computer to talk to a man on there:
"It was the anticipation, the thrill of the forbidden, and she knew that the next morning, the moment she was up and in front of the computer, she would be back there, indulging again, binging and gorging on his words, feasting on his need for her, stuffing herself with it until she felt sick. Getting ready for the next time."
I marked this because I thought it was a clever use of words that would normally be associated with food, but in fact they were used about Naomi's need for a sexual fix. It just highlights that appetite is not just about food. Yet, this is the woman who says, about a friend she has just met for the first time in years and who has put on an enormous amount of weight:
"'And, really, how hard is it to cut back? How hard is it to change habits? Bad habits?'"
It was ironic that she didn't see the similarities with her own situation. And it's so easy to judge, isn't it?
At 470 pages, this is no lightweight of a book. But I didn't want it to end. I found it thoroughly engrossing. It really hit the nail on the head for me - I 'got' it. It was one of those books that spoke to me personally in many ways. It tackles many issues in a non-issue making way, if that makes sense. It's not a rant but a look at how a need for something can control your life. I found myself wishing there was somebody else who was reading it who I could chat to about it. It would be great for book groups as there is so much to discuss and debate.
The writing is superb, it made me think, it shocked me, it thrilled me. Cassidy's writing is completely honest. It's probably not for everybody, but this reader loved it.
January 22, 2018
This is certainly a thought-provoking book, it really makes you think about your choices in life and it can be quite sobering. What’s great about it though is that no matter the subject whether it is food, sex or change it doesn’t feel judgemental or preachy, it doesn’t say this is good or this is bad, things are presented and you can take what you want from it.
The story is told from three points of view, teenager David who is obese and has an unhealthy relationship with food and himself, Naomi who finds renewed excitement through an extramarital affair and Matthew who is stuck in a rut after going on a life-changing trip but starts to feel as if maybe he can make a difference.
I think it’s safe to say that everyone who reads this book will have one character that speaks to them the most, whilst there were parts of each character that I felt something for, surprisingly I really connected with Naomi. Not that I particularly liked her but the situation she gets herself into, the obsession of this new attention and getting carried away with the way it makes her feel, is something I could totally relate to. Although I did get to the stage that I felt so bad for her son and husband and thought she should realise what she could lose, but I totally understood the feelings that the other man brought out in her.
I took a while to warm to Matthew and David. I think with David it was because I started to feel sick when I read what he was eating, not that I’m not prone to treats and takeaways but the time of day and the amount did it, although we found common ground the more I read. Mood eating is also a habit of mine and I thought it was refreshing that he was able to identify that his home life and other influences had impacted his behaviours.
With Matthew, I could relate to the feeling of having an experience that feels life changing and then returning to the day to day and being utterly disillusioned but what I found difficult was his relationship with Polly. I think she was completely using him from the start and it was infuriating that he didn’t see it.
The writing is fluid and even though it is told from three different perspectives they do all connect. What I liked was that the switch from one to another felt natural and had the effect of making you want to read just one more page or one more chapter.
It was actually the cover that initially attracted me to this book but I have to say that the story held a lot more than I expected, really engaging and refreshing. This is a book that will stay in your thoughts after reading and definitely made me more mindful of the food that I have been consuming, I am very much looking forward to seeing what Ms. Cassidy comes up with next.
Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
The story is told from three points of view, teenager David who is obese and has an unhealthy relationship with food and himself, Naomi who finds renewed excitement through an extramarital affair and Matthew who is stuck in a rut after going on a life-changing trip but starts to feel as if maybe he can make a difference.
I think it’s safe to say that everyone who reads this book will have one character that speaks to them the most, whilst there were parts of each character that I felt something for, surprisingly I really connected with Naomi. Not that I particularly liked her but the situation she gets herself into, the obsession of this new attention and getting carried away with the way it makes her feel, is something I could totally relate to. Although I did get to the stage that I felt so bad for her son and husband and thought she should realise what she could lose, but I totally understood the feelings that the other man brought out in her.
I took a while to warm to Matthew and David. I think with David it was because I started to feel sick when I read what he was eating, not that I’m not prone to treats and takeaways but the time of day and the amount did it, although we found common ground the more I read. Mood eating is also a habit of mine and I thought it was refreshing that he was able to identify that his home life and other influences had impacted his behaviours.
With Matthew, I could relate to the feeling of having an experience that feels life changing and then returning to the day to day and being utterly disillusioned but what I found difficult was his relationship with Polly. I think she was completely using him from the start and it was infuriating that he didn’t see it.
The writing is fluid and even though it is told from three different perspectives they do all connect. What I liked was that the switch from one to another felt natural and had the effect of making you want to read just one more page or one more chapter.
It was actually the cover that initially attracted me to this book but I have to say that the story held a lot more than I expected, really engaging and refreshing. This is a book that will stay in your thoughts after reading and definitely made me more mindful of the food that I have been consuming, I am very much looking forward to seeing what Ms. Cassidy comes up with next.
Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
January 23, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpres.com
When you have a book cover with a bright pink lolly on the front alongside the words, 'Appetite', I dare any one of you not to be intrigued by it. Those two reasons alone made me want to read this book something chronic. I wanted to sink my teeth into Anita Cassidy's debut novel. Did Anita Cassidy's 'Appetite' fulfil MY appetite? To be perfectly honest, I'm still sitting on the fence with my answer. That said, the very important themes which the author discusses throughout the entire novel certainly gave me a lot of food for thought...
Food, bullying, divorce, sexual needs.....what more could you want from a book? 'Appetite' reminded me of a three course meal; the slow burning starter, just enough to tickle your fancy, the deep and meaningful main course which keeps you wanting more yet satisfies a certain amount of that ravishing hunger, and lastly, the tantalising dessert which is often a guilty pleasure and full of things you wouldn't normally eat and/or enjoy. Catch my drift?
Even though there were parts of this novel which made me go 'errrrrrrr, what?!', I was able to relate to the storyline surrounding the topics of bullying and self-awareness. I am so glad that the author included such complex topics into her storyline, exploring them in such a black and white manner like the harsh reality that they are.
Whilst I still felt a bit hungry after reading 'Appetite', I still was able to appreciate exactly what the author was trying to do with her characters and the parts they played in tell the story of hunger, and how every single person yearns for something in one way or another. As the story is told via three different viewpoints, I found myself enjoying certain characters stories as opposed to all of them. In all honesty, I didn't seem to gel with them all together as one complete story because they were all so different and in my opinion, quite mismatched in terms of the flow.
That said, I was thoroughly entertained with 'Appetite' as, even though it didn't whet my appetite as much as I would have liked, I was still incredibly impressed with the authors 'ballsy' writing and the fact that she has thought 'stuff it' to society.
A very cleverly written, eye-opening novel which will either satisfy your hunger or give you food for thought with this unique portrayal of everything society isn't.
When you have a book cover with a bright pink lolly on the front alongside the words, 'Appetite', I dare any one of you not to be intrigued by it. Those two reasons alone made me want to read this book something chronic. I wanted to sink my teeth into Anita Cassidy's debut novel. Did Anita Cassidy's 'Appetite' fulfil MY appetite? To be perfectly honest, I'm still sitting on the fence with my answer. That said, the very important themes which the author discusses throughout the entire novel certainly gave me a lot of food for thought...
Food, bullying, divorce, sexual needs.....what more could you want from a book? 'Appetite' reminded me of a three course meal; the slow burning starter, just enough to tickle your fancy, the deep and meaningful main course which keeps you wanting more yet satisfies a certain amount of that ravishing hunger, and lastly, the tantalising dessert which is often a guilty pleasure and full of things you wouldn't normally eat and/or enjoy. Catch my drift?
Even though there were parts of this novel which made me go 'errrrrrrr, what?!', I was able to relate to the storyline surrounding the topics of bullying and self-awareness. I am so glad that the author included such complex topics into her storyline, exploring them in such a black and white manner like the harsh reality that they are.
Whilst I still felt a bit hungry after reading 'Appetite', I still was able to appreciate exactly what the author was trying to do with her characters and the parts they played in tell the story of hunger, and how every single person yearns for something in one way or another. As the story is told via three different viewpoints, I found myself enjoying certain characters stories as opposed to all of them. In all honesty, I didn't seem to gel with them all together as one complete story because they were all so different and in my opinion, quite mismatched in terms of the flow.
That said, I was thoroughly entertained with 'Appetite' as, even though it didn't whet my appetite as much as I would have liked, I was still incredibly impressed with the authors 'ballsy' writing and the fact that she has thought 'stuff it' to society.
A very cleverly written, eye-opening novel which will either satisfy your hunger or give you food for thought with this unique portrayal of everything society isn't.
January 28, 2018
The main characters in this book were David, Naomi and Matthew, and the whole story was told from their perspectives. Even though this book was told from these three characters views, there were plenty of other, smaller, but very influential characters as well, which should not be forgotten, because I think they shaped the main characters in this novel. I am talking about David’s mom Kerri, Matthew’s girlfriend Polly and Naomi’s guilty pleasure, Mike. I loved that Anita created this very strong emotional bond between all the characters, I think that allowed to understand the main storytellers and the reasons for their actions way better.
My favourite one in this novel was David. I found his feelings and his experience highly amusing and sometimes shocking, but I was looking forward to his parts in this book. My least favourite one was Naomi. I simply cannot justify her behaviour in any way, and I personally do not respect people like her. (I could rant about her for a very long time, but I will try not to, even though she makes my blood boil.)
One thing that really stands out while reading this novel was passion. I could feel author’s passion about the topics she discussed, seeping through the pages of this book. I think it is very well researched novel, sharing plenty of facts with a reader. I am very grateful that author talks about really important topics, such as bullying, obesity, how parents influence children’s eating habits, and how sugar is taking over our society. Even though this topic has been analyzed in many books, I think that author chose a fresh and original way to highlight these issues.
I really liked the writing style of this book, I think it has a very good focus on detail, and it actually left me more connected to this book. (It is hard to describe the feeling…) The chapters are decent length, and overall it didn’t leave me bored, except for Naomi’s part, they kind of dragged for me. The ending of this book rounded the story nicely and left me quite satisfied. I would like to throw in a disclaimer, that there are some graphic sexual scenes in this book. So to conclude, I had very educational experience, filled with very complex characters and their different needs, feelings and emotions. I do recommend this book, I think it is quite relatable, very realistic and thought-provoking.
My favourite one in this novel was David. I found his feelings and his experience highly amusing and sometimes shocking, but I was looking forward to his parts in this book. My least favourite one was Naomi. I simply cannot justify her behaviour in any way, and I personally do not respect people like her. (I could rant about her for a very long time, but I will try not to, even though she makes my blood boil.)
One thing that really stands out while reading this novel was passion. I could feel author’s passion about the topics she discussed, seeping through the pages of this book. I think it is very well researched novel, sharing plenty of facts with a reader. I am very grateful that author talks about really important topics, such as bullying, obesity, how parents influence children’s eating habits, and how sugar is taking over our society. Even though this topic has been analyzed in many books, I think that author chose a fresh and original way to highlight these issues.
I really liked the writing style of this book, I think it has a very good focus on detail, and it actually left me more connected to this book. (It is hard to describe the feeling…) The chapters are decent length, and overall it didn’t leave me bored, except for Naomi’s part, they kind of dragged for me. The ending of this book rounded the story nicely and left me quite satisfied. I would like to throw in a disclaimer, that there are some graphic sexual scenes in this book. So to conclude, I had very educational experience, filled with very complex characters and their different needs, feelings and emotions. I do recommend this book, I think it is quite relatable, very realistic and thought-provoking.
January 24, 2018
Ms Cassidy describes herself as a relationship radical which seems to catch her exactly. This is a fascinating read about an attractive woman approaching forty with a stale marriage and a troubled teenage son as a setting. She gets involved in computer messaging back and forth on a message thread with the younger husband of her younger good friend and colleague at work. The messaging goes from innocent friendship to something deeper and more personal and then obsessive. The younger man sort of have skills at domination which the heroine recognizes but which draws her in even more. This leads to messaging sex and then the plot difficulties of moving on to the real thing. How this process works is compelling and the author illustrates one of the social phenomena of our times exceeding well.
As a writer, I found the messages and the back and forth interesting because it is powerful dialogue and it shows that this social media mediated dialogue has a power all its own. Ms Cassidy captures this exceedingly well. The lessons of shorter and sharper dialogue and particularly for women characters to be more psychologically on-point come through. Also the need to get at the manipulative aspect of male verbal schemes raises the prospects of new vistas. Human behavior is complex.
I found the ending interesting, flowed from the story, and left me with insightful thoughts. For a male reader, it is a glimpse at life on the other side of the gender line as midlife approaches.
As a writer, I found the messages and the back and forth interesting because it is powerful dialogue and it shows that this social media mediated dialogue has a power all its own. Ms Cassidy captures this exceedingly well. The lessons of shorter and sharper dialogue and particularly for women characters to be more psychologically on-point come through. Also the need to get at the manipulative aspect of male verbal schemes raises the prospects of new vistas. Human behavior is complex.
I found the ending interesting, flowed from the story, and left me with insightful thoughts. For a male reader, it is a glimpse at life on the other side of the gender line as midlife approaches.
February 3, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this gorgeous book, and despite having finished reading it weeks ago now the characters have really stayed with me. The boys in particular, but still all these weeks later I am really not sure how I feel about Naomi. The words selfish, self-serving and narcissistic spring to mind for her, which is harsh on my part because ultimately she is really just insecure and miserable and her behaviour is really only damaging herself. It's strange because I wanted to like her but I am really struggling to conjure up some sympathy and good feeling towards her that is really rare for me! (A testament to how well written she is!). However the boys, well, despite having a tough time in their own separate ways they really step up and become heroes in their own lives, and actually as a result, heroes in other lives too. I love both of them in their own ways, and actually, Anita Cassidy if you are reading this, I would love spin off books about both - a prequel of Matthew's big adventure just prior to us meeting him in this book, and a "David" self-help book written 5 years after we meet him in this story - I have been thinking about these things a lot!
Anyway, I would highly recommend you go out and grab yourself a copy of this book - I guarantee it is unlike anything else you will have read!
Anyway, I would highly recommend you go out and grab yourself a copy of this book - I guarantee it is unlike anything else you will have read!
January 13, 2018
A great read. 3 stories in one and all on subjects that are every day battles, one of which is a taboo subject and is very much so frowned upon (but personally is slowly be coming more socially acceptable). I think anyone who reads this will relate to each of the stories in some way shape or form. I know I definitely did.
The way it is written is easy to keep track as sometimes with multiple characters the storylines can get confused. But the 2 weekly chapters keep it in focus and make it easy to follow
There are 3 different age ranges as well which spreads the demographic out a bit so it can be read from teens upwards.
Don't want to put any spoilers in here or give too much away but it has you hooked from the beginning and I will definitely be following Anita's work from now on
Bravo Anita!
The way it is written is easy to keep track as sometimes with multiple characters the storylines can get confused. But the 2 weekly chapters keep it in focus and make it easy to follow
There are 3 different age ranges as well which spreads the demographic out a bit so it can be read from teens upwards.
Don't want to put any spoilers in here or give too much away but it has you hooked from the beginning and I will definitely be following Anita's work from now on
Bravo Anita!
February 19, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. The three main characters, (David,Naomi and Matthew), were an interesting bunch. The book flowed very well and the characters were well developed. I finished this booki awhile ago, and the characters are still with me. Each charecter is dealing with something and to see how they deal with it, is one of the reasons to read this book. The other is it is just plain good!!! Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC of this book in return for my honest review.
January 29, 2018
This is a fabulous book. The characters draw you along with them for their very interesting ride. There are some truly unexpected turns and a very satisfying conclusion. The story also gives you plenty of 'food for thought', (appropriate, given the title) and I came away with a real reminder of some what is important about how we look after ourselves, both in terms of physical health and, as importantly, mental heath.
A great read!
A great read!
March 5, 2018
‘Appetite’ is a compulsive novel that manages to at once engage, inform and inspire. All characters are well drawn but David is particularly sympathetic, his weight and self-loathing poignantly rendered. Witty and wise, Anita Cassidy’s debut is remarkable for its sure-footed pacing and convincing characterisation. Highly recommended.
January 14, 2018
I really enjoyed this! It kind of started off slowly but then once the family's started mixing together and everything was connected I got really into it and couldn't stop reading. I loved the different "appetites" (addictions) and the different age groups. I think it all pulled together nicely.
February 21, 2020
Appetite is a fantastic story that take three people and the struggles they face in their day to day lives. Anita Cassidy weaves the three together very gently and builds these characters with a delicate and skilled hand that keeps you hooked as you turn the pages.
April 18, 2018
I loved reading this book. It's a quick read, in a good way. It does make you question your own desires and appetites, and I was really invested in the characters. Loved it!
January 5, 2018
#APPETITE is one of the most entertaining and thought provoking books I have ever read. Tackling some difficult, and often controversial, subjects it is quite an eye opener. I’m sure everyone will relate to one of the characters or another.
My favourite character is David. I warmed to him immediately. As an overweight person myself I can relate, although my weight isn’t as extreme as David’s is portrayed to be, I can understand his relationship with food to a certain degree. My mood totally dictates what I want to eat and other people can also influence what we consume. I don’t keep chocolate, sweets, crisps etc in the house though (generally! Christmas is different when people have bought them for us as gifts). I don’t do ready meals as I love to cook and I love nice food. I love all the good stuff, but who doesn’t like a pudding every now and then. I do bake sometimes, but nowhere near as often as I once did. I love my food, but I couldn’t imagine packing away chocolate, sweets and crisps the way David and his family do. However, the way they use these ‘treats’ almost as a way to bring them together as a family (especially since his father left home) is understandable and it’s easy to see how we can fall into such habits. I really felt for his mother, Kerrie.
It’s also typical of the society we live in to judge overweight people. It’s often assumed that we just sit on the sofa all day stuffing our faces, but this isn’t always the case. Some slim people have awful diets and can be much more unhealthy and unfit than overweight people, but no-one bats an eyelid at them. People who have never struggled with their weight have no idea how difficult it can be. The amount of times I’ve heard slim people say ‘just eat less and move more, simple!’ If it was that simple there would be no overweight people!
I’ve come across more than one Naomi. I have often been looked up and down in disgust by others who think they’re perfect. Noami’s character proves that these people are generally far from perfect themselves. Looking slim and pretty doesn’t make anyone perfect. We can all have our own cravings and some are much worse than craving a mars bar! Naomi isn’t a character I particularly warmed to. I don’t understand unfaithful people. I understand people can be unhappy and I totally agree that life is too short to be miserable, but if you’re miserable in a relationship just end it and move on. Easier said than done I’m sure, but surely a clean slate is easier than lies and deceit. The people who are being lied to and deceived don’t deserve to believe everything is rosy whilst you’re having your cake and eating it. Having said that I am very happily married and can’t even imagine feeling like I need something more, so it’s easy for me to judge. Needless to say I didn’t relate to Naomi. However, she proves again how powerful addiction and want can be, whether it’s addiction to sex, drink or food, and how circumstances can lead to unhealthy habits.
I liked Matthew, other than when he is being walked all over by Polly. Wow, she is a character! I’m all for people having passion in what they do, but wow!
I liked the positive influence Matthew has on David. As much as I think it’s a parents responsibility to ensure their child’s health and well being, I do think teachers can be a great influence. After all, our children spend nearly 6 hours a day with them during term time.
The issue of advertising junk foods etc. is a tricky one. Business is business and companies need to make money. The whole point of advertising is to influence. Every food advert I see makes me want what they’re offering (a standing joke in our house!) However, this doesn’t mean I rush out to buy it. We always have a choice.
Would we all eat less if food advertising was banned?
I do think supermarkets should put more offers on fruits, vegetables, lean meats and chicken though. It’s always the naughty stuff that’s on offer which is not at all helpful when trying to eat better, especially on a budget.
I also think ingredients should be clearer on some packaging, although this seems to be much better these days with so many food allergies to contend with, if for no other reason.
I could go on for days…..
APPETITE has really made me think and it’s a book that I’m sure will stay with me for a long time to come.
I’m also sure it will provoke many differing opinions and I look forward to reading other people’s reviews.
Many thanks to the author and Anna, at RedDoor Publishing, for my ARC. I am more than happy to recommend.
https://chataboutbooks.wordpress.com/...
My favourite character is David. I warmed to him immediately. As an overweight person myself I can relate, although my weight isn’t as extreme as David’s is portrayed to be, I can understand his relationship with food to a certain degree. My mood totally dictates what I want to eat and other people can also influence what we consume. I don’t keep chocolate, sweets, crisps etc in the house though (generally! Christmas is different when people have bought them for us as gifts). I don’t do ready meals as I love to cook and I love nice food. I love all the good stuff, but who doesn’t like a pudding every now and then. I do bake sometimes, but nowhere near as often as I once did. I love my food, but I couldn’t imagine packing away chocolate, sweets and crisps the way David and his family do. However, the way they use these ‘treats’ almost as a way to bring them together as a family (especially since his father left home) is understandable and it’s easy to see how we can fall into such habits. I really felt for his mother, Kerrie.
It’s also typical of the society we live in to judge overweight people. It’s often assumed that we just sit on the sofa all day stuffing our faces, but this isn’t always the case. Some slim people have awful diets and can be much more unhealthy and unfit than overweight people, but no-one bats an eyelid at them. People who have never struggled with their weight have no idea how difficult it can be. The amount of times I’ve heard slim people say ‘just eat less and move more, simple!’ If it was that simple there would be no overweight people!
I’ve come across more than one Naomi. I have often been looked up and down in disgust by others who think they’re perfect. Noami’s character proves that these people are generally far from perfect themselves. Looking slim and pretty doesn’t make anyone perfect. We can all have our own cravings and some are much worse than craving a mars bar! Naomi isn’t a character I particularly warmed to. I don’t understand unfaithful people. I understand people can be unhappy and I totally agree that life is too short to be miserable, but if you’re miserable in a relationship just end it and move on. Easier said than done I’m sure, but surely a clean slate is easier than lies and deceit. The people who are being lied to and deceived don’t deserve to believe everything is rosy whilst you’re having your cake and eating it. Having said that I am very happily married and can’t even imagine feeling like I need something more, so it’s easy for me to judge. Needless to say I didn’t relate to Naomi. However, she proves again how powerful addiction and want can be, whether it’s addiction to sex, drink or food, and how circumstances can lead to unhealthy habits.
I liked Matthew, other than when he is being walked all over by Polly. Wow, she is a character! I’m all for people having passion in what they do, but wow!
I liked the positive influence Matthew has on David. As much as I think it’s a parents responsibility to ensure their child’s health and well being, I do think teachers can be a great influence. After all, our children spend nearly 6 hours a day with them during term time.
The issue of advertising junk foods etc. is a tricky one. Business is business and companies need to make money. The whole point of advertising is to influence. Every food advert I see makes me want what they’re offering (a standing joke in our house!) However, this doesn’t mean I rush out to buy it. We always have a choice.
Would we all eat less if food advertising was banned?
I do think supermarkets should put more offers on fruits, vegetables, lean meats and chicken though. It’s always the naughty stuff that’s on offer which is not at all helpful when trying to eat better, especially on a budget.
I also think ingredients should be clearer on some packaging, although this seems to be much better these days with so many food allergies to contend with, if for no other reason.
I could go on for days…..
APPETITE has really made me think and it’s a book that I’m sure will stay with me for a long time to come.
I’m also sure it will provoke many differing opinions and I look forward to reading other people’s reviews.
Many thanks to the author and Anna, at RedDoor Publishing, for my ARC. I am more than happy to recommend.
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January 19, 2018
Review first published here: https://joyfulantidotes.com/2018/01/1...
Appetite by Anita Cassidy focuses on some of the biggest urges of mankind: food, sex and the desire for more from life. These urges are explored through the stories of three people: Naomi, a lonely housewife who embarks on an affair; David an overweight schoolboy and Matthew, an intelligent but jaded teacher.
What I loved the most about this book was Cassidy’s ability to create not only interesting characters but three absolutely different characters. Naomi is very selfish and judgemental of others, ironic considering her extramarital affair. I really disliked her but found her presence to be a refreshing contrast to David who rustled up more caring and heart wrenching emotions within me. However, even though I didn’t find his personal story the most interesting, it was Matthew whom I found the most relatable. There is currently something within me, an appetite let’s say, that also wants to do more in life. In David, I found some encouragement to try new things, however big or small, and not to be afraid.
Regardless of how much or how little Appetite’s characters appeal to you, this book will certainly make you think: how do people get into these situations? Could I get into one of these situations? How would I react and what would I do if I was Naomi, David or Matthew. The story will leave your mind racing and also more understanding of other people; nobody knows why others do the things they do.
The ending of Appetite brought me mixed feelings of satisfaction and annoyance. It was fulfilling that each character’s story came to a conclusion, however, some were not conclusions I found comfort in. I guess that because this book was a bit drawn out and over detailed for me, the conclusion didn’t meet my levels of effort in reading the book. Does that make sense?
Overall, I found Appetite was a great way to get my brain flowing. I enjoyed the debatable topics I drew from its pages – even if I only had myself to debate with!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Appetite by Anita Cassidy focuses on some of the biggest urges of mankind: food, sex and the desire for more from life. These urges are explored through the stories of three people: Naomi, a lonely housewife who embarks on an affair; David an overweight schoolboy and Matthew, an intelligent but jaded teacher.
What I loved the most about this book was Cassidy’s ability to create not only interesting characters but three absolutely different characters. Naomi is very selfish and judgemental of others, ironic considering her extramarital affair. I really disliked her but found her presence to be a refreshing contrast to David who rustled up more caring and heart wrenching emotions within me. However, even though I didn’t find his personal story the most interesting, it was Matthew whom I found the most relatable. There is currently something within me, an appetite let’s say, that also wants to do more in life. In David, I found some encouragement to try new things, however big or small, and not to be afraid.
Regardless of how much or how little Appetite’s characters appeal to you, this book will certainly make you think: how do people get into these situations? Could I get into one of these situations? How would I react and what would I do if I was Naomi, David or Matthew. The story will leave your mind racing and also more understanding of other people; nobody knows why others do the things they do.
The ending of Appetite brought me mixed feelings of satisfaction and annoyance. It was fulfilling that each character’s story came to a conclusion, however, some were not conclusions I found comfort in. I guess that because this book was a bit drawn out and over detailed for me, the conclusion didn’t meet my levels of effort in reading the book. Does that make sense?
Overall, I found Appetite was a great way to get my brain flowing. I enjoyed the debatable topics I drew from its pages – even if I only had myself to debate with!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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July 25, 2018I liked this book. It was quick, had a bunch of interesting characters and kept it realistic, more or less. The characters are introduced well and their backstories are explained in a manner that makes you connect well with them. While this genre isn't usually my go to, I'm glad I had a chance to read it thanks to NetGallery. This book is a good one time read, preferably sandwiched between two books of the genre you love!
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