on her androgynous, slim frame. We are reminded just how cruel teens can be – even to those who fit the latest beauty trends. Jana’s, and other young women’s, relationship with food is an underlying thread throughout. Handled in a sensitive but frank way, Jana’s unique perspective gives us a glimpse into what it can look like to slip into the throes of an eating disorder.
Responsibility, protection and exploitation
Book covers | Amazon.co.uk
From early on, we feel a sense of unease as we’re drawn into an industry that employs more than 600,000 people across the UK alone,
generating £66 billion for our economy. Yet we’re shown how unthinking an industry it can be for some of its most vulnerable individuals – children scouted as models from a young age. Through Jana’s account, we see first-hand how the lack of boundaries seen as the par for the course there – from teens going to casting shoots alone, to undressing in a room full of strangers – can quickly become the norm for these young women. The precarious situations Jana finds herself in aren’t limited to working beneath the spotlight. Weaving in the danger and pitfalls these girls face behind the scenes, readers are asked the uncomfortable question: in an industry
that values youth and beauty above all else, is enough being done to protect these young women?
Should I read it?
Dawson’s book is heartbreaking, painful, and worth every second. It’s an uncomfortable read, but it’s something I would urge you to finish if you find yourself faltering. It encapsulates so many issues all in one big, confusing whirlwind of emotion, that you won’t be able to put it down as you get drawn into Jana’s world. This book doesn’t try to sugar-coat things. Meat Market is a book about responsibility; the responsibility of
If you liked this, you’ll love... Clean by Juno Dawson When socialite Lexi almost overdoses, she thinks she’s hit rock bottom. Forced into an exclusive rehab, she soon realises she’s wrong. It’s a dirty business getting clean.
The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger High fashion and the boss from hell, when Andrea starts at the world’s most fashionable magazine, she knows little about it. But this is her big break; it’s going to be worth it in the end… isn’t it?
Must Reads Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
After calling the police during a party, no one is talking to Melinda. But she can’t get out the words to explain why. Determined not to think about it, she can’t forget that night.
the fashion industry, of those in power, to speak up when they see something that is making others uncomfortable, and of us as consumers to make our voices heard when things clearly aren’t right. We all have more power than we might think; it’s time we started using it.
Meat Market By Juno Dawson (Quercus, paperback £7.99)
GREAT FOR... • Fans of gritty, dark, young adult fiction. • Readers looking for insight into eating disorders or addiction. • Those interested in fast-paced, meaningful novels.