Fat Girl

Carol Monda's narration is convincing. Not being thin in a society that values thinness can be challenging. Being fat can be miserable, and Moore's account of growing up fat and suffering at the hands of a mother who finds that embarrassing, and who isn't otherwise happy to be a mother, is timely. Monda gives a clear and straightforward narration that moves easily between the small pleasures in this young girl's life, the pain inflicted by her mother and others around her, and her sense of humor, which helps her develop her independence. She avoids whining or falling prey to self-pity. Monda's matter-of-fact tone and understated presentation are compelling. J.E.M. (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine