Whole Girl

January 1, 2021
The 18-year-old founder of WholeGirl.com shares advice and recipes that encourage readers to fully embrace their whole selves. Each chapter is organized into three parts aimed at connecting readers to a different mood or way of being, with the goals of honoring and appreciating oneself, living more mindfully, and increasing awareness of harmful societal messages around food and bodies. Each chapter's mood is framed as a way of being (e.g., "Be Loving," "Be Unsure," "Be Mad") connected to issues faced by young women and offering ways to use that mood to overcome challenges. Exercises suited to the mood--yoga, dancing, and even tree climbing--are presented as pleasurable acts of self-care. Concluding each chapter are recipes that aim to remove the shame surrounding enjoyment of sweet treats. The paleo, gluten-free, and dairy-free recipes are loosely connected to the chapter's mood (nutritional information is not provided). Approachable and engaging, Radinsky exudes best friend vibes; it's no wonder she is a popular blogger and podcaster. Although the title indicates young women are the primary audience, the author acknowledges that gender is a spectrum and welcomes all readers, regardless of identity. Pastel-colored sketches of women of varied skin tones and a range of body sizes as well as full-color photographs of each recipe and photos of the author, who is thin and White, demonstrating the exercises enhance the text. A useful, accessible self-help guide. (notes, resources, recipe index) (Self-help. 12-18)

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