October 1, 2010
In this book of daily readings directed at young women, educator Molinary (Hijas Americanas: Beauty, Body Image, and Growing Up Latina) offers tools and resources for personal empowerment. Molinary's work stems from her belief that each woman should develop her own positive self-image independent of popular culture. Some readings are a single paragraph, others continue beyond a page. Throughout, she uses examples from her own life and includes exercises for writing in a "Beautiful You Journal." In her introduction, Molinary stresses that though there is no single right way to read through this book, doing the exercises is important for learning. She also gives guidelines for sharing experiences in dyad (friend, mentor, mother, or daughter) and group settings. VERDICT Although the readings are designed with young women in mind, this book can help foster self-confidence and positive body image for all women, and it should appeal to all ages.--Lucille M. Boone, San Jose P.L., CA
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