This came up on a local list I am on. I don't have any little girls, but I think this is a topic that certainly should have some books about it. So, wise mamas, do you know of any good ones? For what ages?

I don't believe there is anything you can "do" by reading a book to prevent an eating disorder.

I think the idea was more about having young girls feel comfortable in their bodies...reducing the odds of ending up with an eating disorder.

I'm not positive about this book but I remember reading it as a teen....Raising Ophelia.

http://www.somethingfishy.org/prevention/what.php

This site is a wealth of eating disorders information. This is a link to their prevention ideas page.

Originally posted by Erica
I'm not positive about this book but I remember reading it as a teen....Raising Ophelia.

You're thinking of Reviving Ophelia.

That's the book that came immediately to my mind as well.

I honestly don't think reading a book will help. I suffered from anorxia from age 10-15. 'I've always eaten like a bird and would sometimes go a day without a meal since I was a little girl. So my parents didn't notice. When I was 13 I fainted into my father's arms because I hadn't eaten in 3 days. I say pay close attention to your child. My parents to this day don't know. I remember knowing something was wrong and I wanted so badly for someone to help me! Thankfully I had GREAT friends. They helped me though it. I am still struggling, especially since I need to lose the 'baby weight'. It seems so much easier to not eat. My advice is to read up on the signs, just pay attention. I felt like I would die from it one day because no one noticed my problem and I was too ashamed to ask for help :(
Joanita

I thought of Reviving Ophelia also. It's a very good book that covers a lot of other stuff too. Indispensible for those with girls, IMO.

Honestly, I don't think anyone thinks reading a book is a guarantee against anything. But there is no harm done by parents arming themselves with information about how to keep self esteem high in young girls, so I don't see any reason to be discouraging to anyone wanting to help their children.