Maggie Eats Healthier
front cover showing the original title | |
| Author | Paul Kramer |
|---|---|
| Original title | Maggie Goes on a Diet |
| Illustrator | Mari Kuwayama |
| Cover artist | Mari Kuwayama |
| Language | English |
| Subject | health nutrition body image self-esteem |
| Genre | Fiction |
| Publisher | Aloha Publishers |
Publication date | December 16, 2011 (under the title Maggie Goes on a Diet) |
| Publication place | United States |
| Pages | 44 |
| ISBN | 0-9819745-5-4 |
| OCLC | 600991929 |
Maggie Eats Healthier (originally titled Maggie Goes on a Diet) is a children's literary work by Paul Kramer that addresses weight management during childhood, targeting readers aged 6–12.[1] According to data from WorldCat, as of May 2015, the book is available in 19 libraries.[2]
Plot
Maggie Magee wasn’t very athletic and was often teased at school for being overweight. Despite feeling clumsy and discouraged, she was determined to get fit and lean someday. After a tough day filled with teasing and disappointment, Maggie sought comfort in food but decided she wouldn’t let negativity control her.
She was nervous about trying soccer but found she could kick well. Though she struggled to run fast and got tired easily, she enjoyed playing and had fun. Despite daily teasing—calling her names like "fatty"—Maggie mostly ignored the insults, sometimes asking others how they’d feel if they were bullied.
Determined to change, Maggie promised herself to lose weight, especially around her stomach and behind. She decided to start a healthier eating plan, beginning the very next morning. Her new diet included oatmeal with fruit, turkey sandwiches, and vegetables. She missed treats but imagined herself in smaller jeans and found healthy foods surprisingly tasty. Within a week, she shed some pounds, gained more energy, and improved her athletic skills.
Over four months, Maggie lost more than thirty pounds, felt happier, and looked better. She exercised regularly and grew more confident. She started playing soccer twice a week and became one of her team’s best players. Scoring goals made her cheer and boosted her popularity. She gained confidence in school, earned higher grades, and enjoyed her life more.
In just over ten months, Maggie lost fifty-one pounds, and her old clothes no longer fit. She bought new clothes and felt excited about her transformation. Her team finished the season strong, and Maggie’s efforts paid off. She practiced with dedication and even helped a smaller girl struggling to kick the ball, inspiring her to help others.
Maggie realized that judging people by their appearance is unfair and that everyone deserves a chance. Her sacrifices and hard work brought lasting benefits, making her happier and healthier. Her journey showed her that perseverance and kindness can truly change lives.
Synopsis
This is a heartwarming children’s story about a 14-year-old girl named Maggie who loved to play sports but found it difficult to reach her potential because of her weight issues. She changed her life by altering her bad eating habits to healthy eating habits and by exercising. As a result, she became more physically fit and was able to achieve her goal of being the best she was capable of being. She also realized that nutritious foods could be quite tasty. Through time, exercising regularly and cutting out most junk food, Maggie’s confidence improved, and she was healthier and happier.
Summary
The narrative centers on Maggie Magee, a 14-year-old girl who transitions from being obese to slender. At the outset, Maggie faces bullying due to her weight and compensates by consuming large amounts of bread and cheese to boost her mood. Over time, she realizes that her weight attracts teasing and decides to take control by shedding pounds. She adopts healthier eating habits, such as consuming fruits and oatmeal, and increases her physical activity. As a result, she loses weight, her former bullies become friends, and her social standing improves. She begins participating in sports, culminating in her becoming a star soccer player by the story's end.
Controversy
The book has faced criticism for its depiction of weight loss aimed at young children,[3][4][5] with some parents and critics arguing that it might inadvertently be damaging to the very audience it aims to support. Film director Darryl Roberts commented, "We must safeguard our children. Today’s youth are seen as marketing targets, which is harming them. A 6-year-old reading about someone losing weight, gaining popularity, and having a better life is problematic."[6] Some consumers have even boycotted the book on Amazon, citing concerns over its potentially harmful message.[4][7]
Paul Kramer, the author, has defended his work, stating, "Maggie recognizes that children can be unkind and that she chooses to do something about it—by taking control of her health through exercise. She wants to look better, feel better, and avoid teasing."[8] In a 2012 discussion, Dr. William Sears supported the book’s message, appreciating Maggie’s acknowledgment and responsibility regarding her weight issues.[9]
See also
References
- ^ Saguy, Abigail (2013). What's Wrong with Fat?. Oxford University Press. pp. 3–5, 68. ISBN 978-0199857081.
- ^ WorldCat record
- ^ Eddington, Patti (October 18, 2011). "Book about overweight child 'Maggie Goes on a Diet' draws ire". The Grand Rapids Press. Retrieved November 19, 2011.
- ^ a b Kaplan, Karen (August 23, 2011). "'Maggie Goes on a Diet' the sensible way in children's literature". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved November 19, 2011.
- ^ https://news.yahoo.com/video/health-1574655/children-s-book-maggie-goes-on-a-diet-causes-stir-26388352.html
- ^ Fain, Jean (October 14, 2011). "Children's Book Author and Filmmaker Discusses Kids' Dieting Controversy". Huffington Post. Retrieved November 19, 2011.
- ^ Mason, Max (August 23, 2011). "Children's diet book leaves a negative impression". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved November 19, 2011.
- ^ Hopper, Jessica (August 23, 2011). "'Maggie Goes on a Diet' Author Defends Controversial Teen Dieting Book". ABC News. Retrieved November 19, 2011.
- ^ Katz, David L.; Murimi, Mary; Pretlow, Robert A.; Sears, William (2012-04-01). "Assessing the Impact of Messaging in Childhood Obesity Campaigns". Childhood Obesity. 8 (2): 99. doi:10.1089/chi.2012.0082.roun. ISSN 2153-2168. PMID 22799508.