Since I have had profound experience with middle school students, I decided to read this book to help me understand a common issue they may face. In addition, I have a background in psychology, so I feel my past knowledge has helped me identify some of these issues. Overall, this book is very informative and offers quite a bit of information on different types of eating disorders. Although I have never dealt with this serious illness, I know several people who have. It is a very dangerous and debilitating disorder. I feel this book is a great informative tool for students in fifth grade and above because it describes several factors that contribute to eating disorders. As young adults, students need to be aware of signs and issues that may contribute to an eating disorder. Once they are aware of the signs, they will more likely be able to control or prevent themselves from going down a destructive path. I also feel it is important for the teacher to act as a role model to present this type of information in an informative class such as health, especially when students are as young as fifth grade. By doing this, students may feel more comfortable approaching the teacher about issues they are facing. Although the teacher is not a psychologist, the teaching profession involves many aspects of psychology. Thus, I feel teacher’s should create a warm environment in their classroom where students feel comfortable not only learning, but communicating their own opinions.
This is a very informative and easy to read. This book is an excellent resource for teachers, social workers, parents and teens on eating disorders, treatments, and resources.