Wintergirls in Penguin's Point of View Books

May 26, 2014 Renee rated it it was amazing

Never loved a book so much in my life.

I can honestly say that this is the book that sparked my interest in anorexia which ended up becoming a full-blown fascination with all forms of eating disorders which in turn has landed me studying psychology in university. I feel a true sense of belonging amongst psychology.

I understand that some people find Laurie's style of writing in this book unusual and distracting, with wordswithoutspaces and ~~struck through~~ and .:segements.:in.:the.:centre.: I, Never loved a book so much in my life.

I can honestly say that this is the book that sparked my interest in anorexia which ended up becoming a full-blown fascination with all forms of eating disorders which in turn has landed me studying psychology in university. I feel a true sense of belonging amongst psychology.

I understand that some people find Laurie's style of writing in this book unusual and distracting, with wordswithoutspaces and ~~struck through~~ and .:segements.:in.:the.:centre.: I, however, thought this just added to the confusion and feelings of helplessness and hopelessness Lia experienced throughout the book. Not only does she have anorexia, but she has depression too. They go hand in hand - an eating disorder patient without some degree of depression is virtually unheard of.

Lia's downward spiral from bad to worse is intriguing. I can't personally say that I know what anorexia feels like, but I've read 'official' reviews of this book, some of whom have had eating disorders, that report that Wintergirls is one of the most realistic tellings of anorexia they've read. It just goes to show the talent Laurie has - it was reader experience, not her own, that encouraged her to write this book.

I found Cassie to be an essential part of the book. She serves as Lia's most destructive voice at times but also the voice of reason. The book would not have been the same without her. I don't believe Cassie was included to create an element of the supernatural - I think she is purely Lia's imagination, saying what Lia wishes she could, but can't get the words out. Lia misses Cassie, it's part of the reason why her condition rapidly deteriorates. It's how people with mental illness cope - they retreat into their illness until they are consumed. As Lia (view spoiler), Cassie's visits become less frequent, and when she does appear, she stays on the sidelines, not talking to Lia. I get the impression that Cassie is proud of Lia for finally beginning to achieve what she couldn't.

I'd recommend this to anyone. Eating disorders are on the rise, yet there are still people saying "oh, I wish you could catch anorexia like a cold." it's an eye-opener, a true insight into just how destructive someone can be to themselves. ...more

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