Reconstructing Natalie

Serious chick-lit? It can work, as seen in this faith-filled novel that revolves around breast cancer. Single gal Natalie Moore is just 27 when she is diagnosed with the disease. Walker's humor leavens the panic and the illness's accompanying indignities, such as a painful mammogram ("Now I knew how it felt to be a hamburger patty on a George Foreman grill"). Cancer's emotional and spiritual ramifications also drive the plot line—getting dropped like a hot potato by a boyfriend, dating woes, avoidance by friends, leaving her church. Boob puns proliferate, especially at a "Boob Voyage" party thrown by friends before Natalie's double mastectomy. Amidst the ugliness of chemo, hair loss and upchucking at the thought of chocolate is a chance for Natalie to make new friends, establish priorities, loosen some overly close family ties and develop empathy. And yes—have reconstructive surgery that increases her original A cup size. Romance waits in the wings, of course, and readers won't have to guess too hard to know Natalie's Mr. Right. There are a few faux pas, including an odd dream sequence and a plug for what appears to be Walker's own nonfiction book, Thanks for the Mammogram! . Those diagnosed with breast cancer, survivors and their women friends will find this an enjoyable and encouraging read. (Sept. 5)