Jemima J

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It's a hit!

I've been meaning to write a review for this after reading it last 2007 but it's only now I got to do so. I picked this up in a bargain bookstore b... (show more)

I've been meaning to write a review for this after reading it last 2007 but it's only now I got to do so. I picked this up in a bargain bookstore because a friend suggested it. At that time, I was on my way to a serious diet plan with a nutritionist at a gym, so this book intrigued me and aroused my curiosity. This story of Jemima really inspired me to continue my diet and never stop even if people discourage me and say that there's no hope, that together with my nutritionist. True, this is still fiction but given the amount of time Jemima spent to improve her looks, it's possible to lose that amount of weight, and exercise with lessened food intake are only secondary attributes to her success. It's her attitude and motivation that kept her going to achieve her goals. I've always had a penchant for journalists because I graduated with a degree in journalism but I don't write for a living. The switch between first person and third person points of view confused me at first but it's necessary. Not only is this a success story about an ugly duckling turning to a beautiful swan, but it's about friendship and knowing who your true friends are. This novel also reflects about society's vanity, that if you're not physically blessed, you'll have a difficult time anywhere and the author got it spot on; when Jemima already transformed her editor gave her the time of day. Another thing I liked about this book is in the end, if you do something good and pining for someone you want, you can have something or someone more than you asked for. This is a very inspiring read and I'll recommend this for those dieters. Never stop believing and don't let anyone tell you what you can/can't do because other people don't know you the way you know yourself. 5 stars! (show less)

 

 

by Facebook-användare

No, it's a flop!

I read this on the toilet over the course of three weeks. My lovely Vita had it and I needed to something to read, while doing the business... so I... (show more)

I read this on the toilet over the course of three weeks. My lovely Vita had it and I needed to something to read, while doing the business... so I review this book from a "toilet reading" standpoint.

I found this book to be slightly predictable, though it moved nicely and the character development was pretty good. Admittedly, I'm not a huge fan of these types of books, but it was a nice story and helped pass the time during particularly long stints of the toilet.

It did have some lovely funny parts, that I found myself chuckling at. But for the most part it's a highly stereotypical look at inner beauty and overcoming weight issues. Read as: " if you are overweight you will have no friends, no significant other and that you'll generally hate your life." Real nice message to send to all those chick lit fans out there Jane Green. (show less)

 

 

by Anonymous User

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  Easy, fun, light read...Great for those times when you don't want to think. It's predictable and I don't particularly like that this woman goes through great lengths to change (potentially damaging her health) the way she looks for a man. But it includes some funny parts all woman can relate to when "playing the dating game". I do find her attitude and persistence inspiring, and I have to admit, I couldn't put the book down at the end...although the ending was quite predictable. The... (show more)

  Easy, fun, light read...Great for those times when you don't want to think. It's predictable and I don't particularly like that this woman goes through great lengths to change (potentially damaging her health) the way she looks for a man. But it includes some funny parts all woman can relate to when "playing the dating game". I do find her attitude and persistence inspiring, and I have to admit, I couldn't put the book down at the end...although the ending was quite predictable. There was an unrealistic "cushion" for her to fall back on everytime Jemima ran into an obstacle. But, is this not what happens when we make good choices in friends?
  I find the Californian stereotype a bit disturbing...I admit there is a lot of that personality-type in certain parts of California. However, many of us choose to live a more meaningful life in the suburbs.

  I wouldn't consider this the best of Jane Green's book, as many of the previous reviews mentioned. I still think "The Beach House" is her best book. (show less)

   

  by Facebook-användare on May 10, 2009 at 10:19PM

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  I loved the book and hated the book at the same time. I loved the story. It had a lot of me in it. I am severely overweight, in need of a Geraldine in my life, and desperately wanting the life that JJ finds. But, I hate that the book also tells of how it doesn't matter WHO you are or WHAT you look like, that things can not go your way or feel the way you expect them to, even at the height of your best! I hated the idealist viewpoint as well. Things would happen but resolution was so absolute.... (show more)

  I loved the book and hated the book at the same time. I loved the story. It had a lot of me in it. I am severely overweight, in need of a Geraldine in my life, and desperately wanting the life that JJ finds. But, I hate that the book also tells of how it doesn't matter WHO you are or WHAT you look like, that things can not go your way or feel the way you expect them to, even at the height of your best! I hated the idealist viewpoint as well. Things would happen but resolution was so absolute. She had her "fall-back". The friend, the guy... She was always "safe" if you get what I'm saying. Conveniently taken care of. But, I realize, that's what fiction is, and it was very well written, I'll give the author that. Characters were relatable though a bit glamourized. All in all, I would recommend reading it. It isn't a waste of time and does keep you interested throughout. :) (show less)

   

   

  by Laurel Pogue on Apr 01, 2009 at 02:59AM

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