FOOD FIGHT

A number of books on eating disorders have been written for teenagers; Bode (Trust and Betrayal, 1995, etc.), acknowledging that these diseases are occurring among younger people—predominantly among preteen girls- -directs this book to that audience and their parents. It's clear from the opening pages that anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating are serious disorders with potentially fatal consequences; noting that the causes are rarely physiological, Bode discusses at length the psychological and social pressures that predispose children to begin the food fight that can destroy their lives and the lives of their parents and siblings, too. The tone of the book is compassionate but practical; Bode notes that families seeking help learn the hard way that many hospitalization plans do not cover therapy or treatment for bulimics or anorexics, even when hospitalization becomes necessary. With a useful list of organizations concerned with eating disorders, and a list of further reading, this solid and informative book should be made widely available to all those at risk. (notes) (Nonfiction. 8-12)