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May 2, 2011
From tough-love fitness guru and life coach Michaels (Winning by Losing) comes a new book about more than just losing weight. Viewers of NBC's The Biggest Loser know that Michaels likes to help people recognize the issues that are keeping from reaching their goals, and she brings the same approach to the page, managing to make clear, urgent demands of readers in her non-abrasive, approachable way. The immensely likable Michaels brings a distinctive edge to both the tone and content; she radiates success and is fulfilled by doing what she loves. From the first page, readers will feel her enthusiasm; a winning mix of humor, contestant case studies, personal experience, and motivation (she demands that readers wake up; "Screw surviving," she says, "It's time to THRIVE") never feels platitudinous. From an early focus on self-esteem and managing deep-seated hurt and fears, all reminiscent of The Secret, to clear, step-by-step strategies for organizing goals, Michaels organizes her book around a dynamic three-step process (imagine; believe; achieve) rooted in positive thinking, martial arts philosophies (such as managing fear), faith (thought not necessarily in God), and action. Lots of action.

March 1, 2011

The Biggest Loser's Michaels (Master Your Metabolism, 2009, etc.)  crafts a guide to self-improvement and fulfillment.

Imagine. Believe. Achieve. It has been said many times before, yet many people never realize their full potential. Michaels gives advice and motivation for attaining life dreams. The book is general and can be applied to many situations—e.g., losing weight or building a better career. The tone is conversational and familiar, like a friend patting the reader on the back before kicking them in the rear, and questions are often pointed: "Do you keep dating assholes who abandon you or mistreat you?" Michaels' advice is not new. Anyone who had high-school career day might recall the exercise to "Identify Your Passion" in the first chapter. There are sections at the end of each chapter for readers to offer their own reflections, and a "goal pyramid" is included for organization. The heart of the book lies in Michaels' enthusiasm. She draws from real-life examples, her own and those of others, to demonstrate her methods and motivate her readers. She acknowledges pain but does not allow it as an excuse. There are tips for breaking free from limitations, especially in chapters like "Get an Attitude Adjustment" and "Stop Selling Yourself Short."

Though not unique in its revelations, the book offers inspiration for people who are taking those first rocky steps on the road to self-improvement.

(COPYRIGHT (2011) KIRKUS REVIEWS/NIELSEN BUSINESS MEDIA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.)

November 1, 2010

Strength trainer and life coach for NBC's The Biggest Loser (seen by eight million couch potatoes weekly), Michaels is also the author of the best-selling Making the Cut and Master Your Metabolism. Now she goes spiritual in a book that aims to help readers build inner strength. Such a built-in audience; should be big.

Copyright 2010 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.