Fatty Fatty Boom Boom by Rabia Chaudry

Rabia Chaudry is known for her popular podcast and legal work but she will attract many new fans with this memoir. Born in Pakistan and raised in the U.S. Rabia began her childhood lean and with much family attention in Pakistan but fell prey to the lure of abundant, unhealthy fast food in the states. As soon as she discovered the joys of eating whatever she wanted, whenever she needed an escape, her weight and dependance on comfort through food increased rapidly. Her family became anxious and worried the worst may happen - that no man would want to marry her. And marry she does in a disastrous first marriage. Even after putting herself through law school while raising young children she still felt her weight was a high hurtle she had no idea how to jump. This is an honest and open hearted love letter to food, its power over us and all the hellish punishments we put our bodies through combined with delicious commentary on culture and cuisine complete with her favorite recipes. It turns out body image and managing family expectations are pretty universal.  4 stars