Wasted: A Memoir of Anorexia and Bulimia : Book Review

"Wasted: A Memoir of Anorexia and Bulimia" by Marya Hornbacher is a deeply personal and honest account of her struggles with eating disorders. Hornbacher takes the reader on a raw and emotional journey through her battles with anorexia and bulimia, providing valuable insight into the complexities of these illnesses. Her captivating writing sheds light on the psychological and physical toll that these disorders can have on an individual.

Throughout the book, Hornbacher explores the underlying reasons and triggers for her eating disorders, delving into her troubled relationship with her family, society's obsession with thinness, and her distorted body image. She vividly describes the constant cycle of restriction and bingeing, as well as the mental torment that accompanies these behaviors.

What sets "Wasted" apart is Hornbacher's refusal to romanticize or glamorize her illness. She courageously opens up about the physical consequences she suffered, as well as the emotional turmoil that consumed her. Her vulnerability allows the reader to truly grasp the devastating impact that eating disorders can have on a person's life.

Despite the heavy subject matter, the book also offers moments of strength and hope. Hornbacher's resilience and determination to recover shine through, providing inspiration and motivation for others who may be facing similar struggles. Her story serves as a reminder that there is hope for recovery and the importance of seeking help.

Overall, "Wasted" is a powerful and eye-opening memoir that provides a glimpse into the dark world of eating disorders. Hornbacher's brutally honest and compelling writing makes it a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of these illnesses.

What are readers saying?

"Wasted" is a memoir written by Marya Hornbacher, which delves into her personal battle with eating disorders. The book has received mixed reviews from readers, with some praising its raw honesty and powerful storytelling, while others criticize its graphic content, which can be triggering for some.

Many readers found Hornbacher's memoir to be a brutally honest portrayal of her struggle with anorexia and bulimia. They appreciated her candor and vulnerability in detailing her journey through the depths of her eating disorders. The book has been commended for shedding light on the mental and physical toll of these disorders and educating readers about the harsh realities they entail.

Some reviewers were deeply moved by Hornbacher's writing style, finding it poetic and compelling. They praised her vivid descriptions and ability to capture the emotions and thoughts surrounding disordered eating. The author's openness about her struggles resonated with many readers who have experienced similar challenges, creating a sense of solidarity and understanding.

However, there were also readers who found the graphic nature of the book to be triggering and disturbing. They cautioned against the explicit details of Hornbacher's destructive behaviors, believing that it could potentially be harmful to individuals who are already struggling with their own eating disorders. Some felt that the book lacked a balanced perspective and failed to offer solutions or recovery strategies.

Some reviewers critiqued the repetitive nature of the memoir, feeling that it became monotonous and lost its impact over time. They expressed a desire for more in-depth analysis of the underlying causes and psychological aspects of eating disorders.

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