The best 23 Eating Disorder books

An Apple a Day by Emma Woolf is a powerful memoir that delves into the author's personal struggle with anorexia. Through raw and honest storytelling, Woolf provides insight into the complexities of the illness and the journey towards recovery. The book offers a unique perspective on the challenges of overcoming an eating disorder and ultimately finding a path to self-acceptance and healing.

Chalked Up is a gripping memoir by Jennifer Sey that takes you inside the world of elite gymnastics. With raw honesty, Sey shares her journey from a young, passionate gymnast to a national champion, exposing the dark side of the sport along the way. It's a compelling and eye-opening read that sheds light on the pressures and sacrifices faced by athletes in pursuit of their dreams.

Heavy is a powerful memoir by Kiese Laymon that delves into the author's experiences growing up as a black man in the American South. Through raw and honest storytelling, Laymon explores themes of race, identity, and the weight of family secrets. This thought-provoking book challenges readers to confront difficult truths about society and themselves.

More Than You Can Chew is a compelling novel by Marnelle Tokio that delves into the complex world of eating disorders. Through the eyes of 16-year-old Kari, the book explores the pressures and expectations placed on young women, as well as the devastating effects of anorexia. It is a thought-provoking and important read that sheds light on a sensitive issue.

Fat Is a Feminist Issue by Susie Orbach delves into the complex relationship between women and their bodies. The book explores how societal expectations, gender roles, and cultural norms contribute to women’s struggles with weight and body image. Orbach challenges traditional notions of beauty and offers insights into how women can reclaim control over their bodies and their lives.

How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff is a gripping novel that follows the story of fifteen-year-old Daisy, who is sent to live with her cousins in the English countryside during a war. As the country falls into chaos, Daisy and her cousins must navigate their way through the challenges of survival, forming deep bonds along the way. This haunting and beautifully written book explores themes of love, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit.

Brave Girl Eating is a powerful memoir by Harriet Brown that chronicles her family's journey through her daughter's struggle with anorexia. Through personal anecdotes and scientific research, Brown sheds light on the complexities of eating disorders and offers valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of recovery.

Diary of an Exercise Addict is a memoir by Peach Friedman that delves into her personal struggle with exercise addiction. Through raw and honest storytelling, Friedman explores the dangerous obsession with fitness and the extreme lengths she went to in order to maintain control over her body. This compelling book sheds light on the dark side of the fitness industry and the mental health issues that can accompany it.

Goodbye Ed, Hello Me is a powerful memoir by Jenni Schaefer that chronicles her journey from struggling with an eating disorder to finding freedom and self-acceptance. Through raw and honest storytelling, Schaefer offers hope and inspiration to those battling similar demons, while also providing practical advice and insights for recovery.

Not Otherwise Specified by Hannah Moskowitz is a compelling coming-of-age story that delves into themes of identity, friendship, and acceptance. The novel follows the life of Etta, a bisexual African American teenager who feels like she doesn't fit in anywhere. As she navigates the challenges of high school, relationships, and pursuing her passion for theater, Etta learns to embrace her true self and find her place in the world.

Paperweight by Meg Haston is a gripping novel that delves into the complexities of mental illness. It follows the story of seventeen-year-old Stevie, who is battling an eating disorder and dealing with the guilt of her brother's death. Through raw and honest storytelling, the book explores themes of self-discovery, healing, and the importance of human connection.

Pointe by Brandy Colbert is a gripping novel that delves into the world of ballet and the complexities of friendship. Set in Chicago, it follows the story of Theo, a talented ballet dancer with a troubled past. When her childhood best friend returns after being missing for four years, Theo is forced to confront painful truths and make difficult choices. With its raw portrayal of teenage struggles and beautiful prose, Pointe is a compelling read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.

Zoe Letting Go by Nora Price is a compelling novel that delves into the struggles of a teenage girl named Zoe who is battling anorexia. Told through journal entries, the book explores Zoe's journey towards self-acceptance and recovery as she grapples with her inner demons and the expectations of those around her. It is a poignant and thought-provoking story that sheds light on the complexities of mental illness.

The F*ck It Diet by Caroline Dooner is a refreshing and empowering take on our obsession with dieting and weight loss. Through personal anecdotes and scientific research, Dooner challenges the diet culture and encourages readers to trust their bodies, eat intuitively, and embrace a healthier relationship with food. This book will make you question everything you thought you knew about dieting and inspire you to finally say “F*ck it” to the endless cycle of restriction and guilt.

The Intuitive Eating Workbook by Evelyn Tribole offers a practical and interactive approach to breaking free from the diet mentality and rediscovering a healthy and joyful relationship with food. Through various exercises and reflections, it guides readers to tune into their body's signals, challenge food rules, and cultivate self-compassion. This workbook is a valuable resource for anyone seeking long-term freedom from restrictive eating patterns.

What I Lost by Alexandra Ballard is a gripping young adult novel that delves into the life of a teenage girl named Elizabeth who is battling an eating disorder. Through Elizabeth's raw and honest narration, the book explores the complexities of mental illness, the power of friendship, and the journey towards self-acceptance and healing. It is a thought-provoking and emotional read that sheds light on an important issue.

The Art of Starving by Sam J. Miller is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of mental illness, body image, and the power of self-discovery. It follows the story of Matt, a teenage boy who believes that starving himself will give him supernatural abilities to uncover the truth about his sister's disappearance. As his journey unfolds, the book challenges societal norms and offers a unique perspective on the struggles many individuals face.

Anorexia and Other Eating Disorders: How to Help Your Child Eat Well and Be Well by Eva Musby is a comprehensive guide for parents and caregivers of children with eating disorders. Drawing from her own experience as a parent, Musby offers practical advice on how to support and nourish a child who is struggling with food and body image issues. The book provides valuable insights into the causes of eating disorders and offers strategies for fostering a positive and healthy relationship with food.

Not Otherwise Specified by Hannah Moskowitz is a powerful coming-of-age novel that delves into issues of identity, friendship, and acceptance. The story follows Etta, a bisexual African American teenager who feels like she doesn't fit in anywhere. As she navigates the challenges of high school, relationships, and her passion for dance, Etta learns to embrace her true self and find her own place in the world.

Health at Every Size by Linda Bacon challenges the conventional wisdom about weight and health. This book advocates for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to health and wellness, promoting body positivity and self-acceptance. It offers evidence-based research and practical strategies to support people of all shapes and sizes in taking care of their bodies.

Please Don't Take My Sisters by Maggie Hartley is a heart-wrenching memoir that tells the story of three siblings who are placed in foster care after enduring years of neglect and abuse. As their dedicated foster carer, Hartley fights to keep the siblings together and give them the love and stability they deserve. This book sheds light on the flaws within the child welfare system and the resilience of the human spirit.

Stop Smoking Now by Allen Carr is a practical and empowering guide that helps individuals break free from the grip of smoking. Through insightful explanations and thought-provoking exercises, the book challenges the misconceptions and fears surrounding quitting. It provides a clear pathway to finally becoming a non-smoker, offering a new perspective and a renewed sense of control over one's own life.

The Mindful Eating Journal by Alyssa Snow Callahan is a practical guide that helps you develop a healthier relationship with food. Through insightful prompts and exercises, this journal encourages you to pay attention to your eating habits, emotions, and physical sensations. It provides a space for reflection and self-discovery, ultimately guiding you towards a more mindful and nourishing way of eating.