Lexie Kite

I have so many thoughts regarding this book. On one hand, I appreciate the topic and wholeheartedly believe it offers a much-needed discourse in our beauty-obsessed world. But I wish the content hadn't been explored in such broad, black-and-white strokes. Makeup, for example, is a multifaceted tool, but it's dismissed as a petty, validation-seeking, expensive pursuit. There's no mention made of all its other uses: self-expression, creativity, artistry, a way to honour cultural traditions, or simply because it brings great joy. The assertion that its use is solely for external validation is so limiting. And don't get me started on the authors' assertion that men don't suffer from body-image issues. That's ridiculous beyond belief.

The authors shine when addressing the way we're all caught in the relentless cycle of diet culture and the dazzling world of social media #fitspo and #thinspo. Their insights are wonderful for those looking for advice on navigating the societal expectations of physical perfection coming at us from every direction. This is also a great resource for parents looking for guidance on how to support pre-teen and teenage girls with body image issues. (Again, parents of boys will need to look elsewhere.)

While the Kites' message is commendable, wading through the book was a challenge. I found my eyes glazing over constantly, and staying engaged in the message was a struggle. A touch of lightness, some interesting anecdotes, perhaps a few interviews... these could have all made the content more easily digestible.

Overall, this is a worthwhile read, especially for those new to the conversation about body image issues and the impact of social media on the way we view our worth. For veterans of the body positivity movement, however, it might feel like this is a refresher course rather than an advanced seminar.… (mere)