cover image Thin Enough: My Spiritual Journey Through the Living Death of an Eating Disorder

Thin Enough: My Spiritual Journey Through the Living Death of an Eating Disorder

Sheryle Cruse, . . New Hope, $12.99 (223pp) ISBN 978-1-59669-003-5

In this part memoir/part how-to, first-time author Cruse tells the agonizing story of her experiences with anorexia and bulimia—of forcing herself to get up at midnight so she could start the day with six hours of exercise, or of going for months with only diet soda and the occasional cough drop. She recounts the twisted yet somehow compelling lies that drove all of her behavior, like thinking that being overly thin equaled perfection. Cruse's recovery was a lengthy process of taking slow steps toward change, undergirded by a growing faith in a patient, graceful God. While Cruse shows admirable bravery in telling the tale, her writing is weak. The audience is unclear, and she shifts between talking to those suffering with eating disorders and addressing their families, while also trying to reach those with church experience and those who have yet to pursue faith. Cruse focuses on her own story almost to the exclusion of offering advice, and although each chapter provides lists of questions, readers may not have the guidance they need to answer them. Many of the end-of-chapter tips on dealing with eating disorders are taken straight from Web sites. But perhaps the compelling cover art, title and Cruse's candor will attract those who need the book most. (Feb.)