Brian Brady asked Ken Capobianco:

I worked with you at "Allesso's" Dept. Store in Roosevelt Field and married a girl from sweaters. Loved the references to Long Island and the store, until my daughter said "It's all fun and games until mom's in the book." The book could be great for high schoolers, especially young men dealing with anorexia. Some stuff (e.g. Jesus statue story) would have to go. Any interest?

Ken Capobianco Brian, hi, I appreciate you reading. I'm trying to think of how the girl from sweaters--your daughter's mom--is in the book, but the only woman character in that chapter is the young woman who shops for grills so I don't know who you are referring to. The young women in sweaters I worked with in "Alesso's" certainly are not in the book. I'm still friends with one of them who also read it and she didn't recognize anyone. I'm pretty sure I remember you and if you want to pursue this further in detail don't hesitate to email me at franznine@live.com As to your main question, the book is indeed profane and explicit for a reason and the religious statues section is purposeful--rejection of guilt and at that moment, Michael begins to fear his sexual impulses and indulgence and confuses them with his indulgence with food--the intimate connection between food and sex that is tied up in the anxiety surrounding the disorder. While young people might read the book, it is definitely geared for readers over 18--the themes are very complex, the philosophical and literature references are meant for adults who would make the associations and the explicit sexuality, which is purposeful (fear of letting go, experiencing pleasure, indulgence) are all tied into the disorder. Usually, if a young teen, who is struggling, reads the novel, I recommend an adult read along and explain things. The book, though, is definitely intended mature teens and adults who struggle and family members trying to understand the disorder and what their children go through. Anorexia is a very complex confluence of issues and anxieties, and I try to explore each one without being sentimental or giving easy answers. It's not a YA book and wouldn't work if I adapted for kids. I really do thank you for reading and if you want to reach out privately, please do. You wife, though, definitely is NOT in the book, though. best, Ken

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