The Cage

Dear Gwyneth,

I've just read your first chapter and I think it is a lovely, sensitive approach to what can be a touchy subject. I think with a bit of polishing this could be really great.

The one thing that did nag at me somewhat was the lack of insight into the deeper causes of eating disorders. Lines such as "Celebrities are beautiful people, and none of them are fat" or "sticking 12 image obsessed girls together" only further the myth that eating disorders are caused by vanity instead of deeper emotional problems.

I know everyone's experience of an eating disorder is slightly different, but as an anorexia survivor that was the one aspect of this chapter that did not quite ring true to me. Otherwise though, really good job!

I'll be back later to read more! :)

I myself have today put up the first few chapters of my memoir of anorexia nervosa, clinical depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Check it out if you are interested on reading books on a similar topic!

Liz

Gwyneth, I think you're understating your abilities. You have an engaging style and you can definitely write! Difficult subject matter, too , but one which may well have quite a big audience out there.
Julia ('Jelly-Boy')

This is a gem that just needs polishing. A diamond in the rough. THe topic is sensitive and thought provoking. Emotive writing and a strong voice. Backed. Eunice - The Temple dancer.

This will be such a touching book once you add on and give the whole story. Contrary to what you think, there is enough emotion involved in my opinion. People with eating disorders tend not to be extremely dramatic... I will be backing and watching this, no doubt.
-Erin
Odds Against Us

Another great book developing!
I think the structure works and as one who has been around people with eating disorders I think it is a very good depiction. – Good luck with this!

BACKED cos I BACKED your other book. Cheers!

JC
The Obergemau Key

THE CAGE
This is an interesting idea for a book: the story of a girl with anorexia. It’s a little hard to get to know Sarah from her letters because she doesn’t explain much about herself; just how difficult it is for her to eat. Is there a way for her to insert more back story up front? I know you used a script font to show that Sarah was writing letters, but to be honest, that makes it very difficult to read. It was a relief to get to her mother’s part when you used just regular type. I don’t understand wh at the mother is doing, tho. These are not letters because they’re not addressed to anyone. Is this a diary she’s keeping? Or a blog she’s writing? Right now, you’re asking, “Why is this person criticizing my writing so?” The answer is, “Because I think you have a good story here and I don’t want people to pass it by because of an unusual font or feeling perplexed about what the mother is writing.” It’s a good story. I’m adding this to my shelf. Burgio (Grain of Salt).

Dear Gwyneth, The is your 2nd book that I'm backing - also done excellently with letters - what a unique idea - very personal to read people's letters. Love, Susie :) p.s. Could you take a moment to back my other memoir book? Thanks. :)

P.S. I had already done this comment & was shocked that it's not here, but it was similar to the one above. :)