Restrict: A Poetic Narrative

by Sol Rivera

A powerful work of poetic narrative fiction, Restrict is the raw yet resonant story of a teenage girl's coming of age in a world that cares more about her weight than her mental health.

Told from the perspective of a young woman who has abandoned her own name to distance herself from the emotional trauma of growing up, Little Girl’s story is a modern examination of eating disorders, body image, puberty, and self-worth. And as the pressure to diet starts to become too much, the question faced by Little Girl is this: how can she ever experience self-love in a world focused solely on her appearance?

Created by teenage author Sol Rivera, Restrict is her powerful and cathartic tale of a struggle shared amongst teenagers. This poetry collection serves as a light on the journey of self-discovery… something which too many have been denied.

Genres: Poetry

112 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 27, 2021

Reviews

[Cherlynn | cherreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

Raw and unflinching, this book highlights body-image issues that so many young women experience but we don't talk about enough due to stigma and lack of proper knowledge. It discusses body dysmorphia, eating disorders, self-esteem, peer pressure, bullying and social hierarchy amongst many others. I also liked its exploration of girlhood and mother-daughter relationships.

Although well-written, I wasn't super wowed by this book. Its relatively short length and verse format meant that I wasn't as emotionally invested as I'd hoped to be. Nevertheless, it's a emotionally-driven read that I would recommend.

[Alexandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE BEST BOOK I HAVE EVER READ IN MY ENTIRE LIFE. SO MOVING.

[Sol · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a pretty big fan :)

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW- This book captured my attention from the very first page and kept it until the last. Once I started reading it, I just couldn't stop. Rivera's writing style blurs the lines between poetry, storytelling, and narrative, and gives us all a clear and real look into the experiences and struggles that many children today face when growing up. Her writing is vivid, insightful, thought provoking, and SO REAL. I highly recommend this book. Some of the images and feelings and pearls of wisdom woven into Restrict are so profound and just unforgettable. All parents of daughters should read this book!
This would also be a great book for required reading for students. Restrict is fearlessly honest, and will lead readers to ask themselves some very important questions and have some much-needed personal reflection. A must-read in my book!

[Nancy M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be so relatable and profound. It spoke to me of the child that was me was more than 60 years ago. I saw myself as I once was; a version of Little Girl .. trying to fit in, accepting ones looks and body shape, folding in rejection ( that happens to more people than not during adolescence), figuring out who am I and wondering who likes me for me? Anybody? And, like so many now and before us, we think we are the only ones who are suffering.

This beautifully written book of self-awareness should be read by pre-teens and teens, as well as their mothers and grandmothers. There's a deep message here for all who read..I highly recommend Sol Rivera's first book!

[Kimberly Kleid · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an incredibly profound story told through beautifully honest and sometimes painful poetry. I read it cover to cover in one sitting and experienced a full range of emotions. Thank you, Sol, for this powerful and all too relatable narrative which you have so adeptly crafted.

[Leslie Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and easy to read, her message was a really good one.

[Tressa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Riveting, heartbreaking, moving.

[Eli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful poetry.