Have you ever seen a picture of yourself and really didn't like what you were seeing? Maybe you suddenly realize it's time for a wardrobe update or some new glasses. Maybe those jeans aren't looking so good any more. Maybe you (like me) just saw the picture on your new driver's license and realized you've moved up to the next age bracket. When cartoonist Carol Lay saw a picture of herself at the age of 50, she realized she was fat. She also realized she had to do something about it, otherwise she was going to stay fat for the rest of her life. And so began the first of many changes that totally transformed the way Lay thought about how and what she ate.
The Big Skinny: How I Changed My Fattitude is a funny and very honest graphic novel that chronicles Lay's life-long battle with being overweight, the changes she made to lose the weight, and her success in keeping those 30 pounds off for good. Told in short chapters, Lay alternates her story with straightforward and practical information on diet, exercise, and nutrition. What she also includes is some fascinating information on food and human behavior. And, while it may seem like there are so many obstacles to overcome in order to lose weight (genetics! hidden calories! sabotaging co-workers!), Lay explains things in a way that makes weight loss a realistic and attainable goal.
We've been hearing it for years, but what really resonates here is the simplicity of Lay's philosophy: Think before you eat. Pay attention to calories and nutrition labels. Eat real food. Exercise. It sounds easy, but it can be so difficult! Lay teaches you, in very simple ways, how to do all these things without disrupting normal life or feeling like you are totally deprived. Yes, you will have to make some fundamental lifestyle changes, but the rewards are worth the effort. And when you've made those changes, nothing can sway you. Not even George Clooney with an egg and sausage biscuit.
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