It’s said that you should never judge a book by it’s cover… Well, this latest children picture book written by Maui author, Paul Kramer, is already coming under fire before anyone has peeked at the pages.
"Maggie Goes on a Diet", is the story of an insecure teen who gets thin to become her schools soccer star and becomes more confident and develop a positive self image.
We showed parents the cover to get their reaction.
"The diet word is pretty shocking especially for a child’s book," said a parent.
"To keep certain foods, we now know is harmful to their health, is a good thing not a bad thing," said a parent.
While parents feelings were mixed, nutritionists and dietitians are outraged.
"I can tell you by the title I’m very concerned," said Daryl Smith-Oswald.
She is a registered dietitian and says the book’s title sends a disturbing and dangerous message to young kids.
"I do think it sends the wrong message, it sends the message that whatever the girl is compared to what she becomes is somehow not good enough, I do have concern for that," said Smith-Oswald.
She says studies show that dieting is the #1 pre-curser to eating disorders.
"Dieting for kids is inherently dangerous."
The book will be released later this fall, but Amazon.com is already taking orders, and promoting the book for first grade readers and up.
"So that’s role modeling thinness to a 4-8 year old," said Smith-Oswald.
Online critics are calling the book an abomination, irresponsible and revolting.
"I don’t accept such message to the kids said Nutritionist Hany Guirguis with Mina Pharmacy.
He says the issue of childhood obesity should be presented to parents instead.
"It is a really valid concern, but we have to address it right. Address it to the parents, address it to the community, address it to the schools," said Guirguis.
Paul Kramer, the book’s author, did not return our request for comment.
See the original article at: KHON2 Developing Stories
