20 best books on being fat – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you tired of reading the same old books that perpetuate harmful stereotypes about body size? Look no further. We’ve curated a list of the 20 best books about being fat that challenge societal norms and offer empowering perspectives. From memoirs to fiction, these diverse and thought-provoking reads celebrate body positivity and explore the complex experiences of individuals living in larger bodies. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or seeking validation, these being fat books will leave you feeling seen, heard, and empowered.


Big Girl: How I Gave Up Dieting and Got a Life

by Kelsey Miller

Big Girl: How I Gave Up Dieting and Got a Life by Kelsey Miller is a remarkable book about embracing one’s body and finding self-acceptance. In a world where society constantly bombards us with unrealistic beauty standards, Miller shares her personal journey of breaking free from the dieting cycle and learning to love herself, flaws and all.

Through her candid and witty storytelling, Miller explores the struggles she faced as a plus-size woman in a culture that often equates beauty with thinness. She tackles topics like body image, societal pressures, and the damaging effects of diet culture with honesty and vulnerability.

What sets this book on being fat apart is Miller’s refreshing take on the subject. Instead of focusing solely on weight loss or body transformation, she delves into the emotional and mental aspects of the journey. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, self-compassion, and finding joy in life, regardless of societal expectations.

Miller’s writing style is engaging and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with her experiences and insights. She combines humor and heartfelt anecdotes to create a compelling narrative that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Whether you’re someone struggling with body image issues or simply looking for a fresh perspective on self-acceptance, this book about being fat is a must-read. It challenges conventional beauty norms and encourages readers to embrace their bodies, regardless of their size.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey towards self-love and body positivity, grab a copy of Big Girl: How I Gave Up Dieting and Got a Life. It’s a powerful reminder that being fat is not something to be ashamed of, but rather a part of our unique identity that deserves celebration.

Hunger: A Memoir of (My) Body

by Roxane Gay

Hunger: A Memoir of (My) Body by Roxane Gay is an incredibly poignant and raw account of her experiences with weight, trauma, and the complexities of living in a society obsessed with thinness. This powerful memoir offers a unique perspective on the struggles and triumphs of being a larger person in a world that often stigmatizes and shames those who don’t fit into society’s narrow beauty standards.

Through her honest and unflinching storytelling, Gay invites readers into her world, sharing her deeply personal journey of coming to terms with her body and the trauma that led to her weight gain. She explores the emotional and psychological toll of being fat, shedding light on the often overlooked realities faced by those living in larger bodies.

What sets Hunger apart is Gay’s remarkable ability to delve into the complexities of her experiences without seeking pity or trying to fit into society’s expectations. She embraces her body and refuses to apologize for its existence, challenging readers to confront their own biases and rethink the way we view and treat fat individuals.

With her eloquent prose and profound insights, Gay offers a powerful narrative that goes beyond the surface-level discussions of weight and body image. Hunger is not just a book about being fat, but rather a deeply personal exploration of identity, trauma, and the struggle for self-acceptance. It is a book that will leave a lasting impact, forcing readers to question the ways in which they perceive and judge others based on their bodies.

Hunger is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of body image, fat acceptance, and the importance of compassion and empathy in a world that often fails to recognize the humanity of those who do not conform to societal norms. Gay’s memoir is a testament to the power of storytelling and the strength it takes to reclaim one’s body and voice.

Shrill: Notes from a Loud Woman

by Lindy West

Shrill: Notes from a Loud Woman by Lindy West is an empowering and unapologetic manifesto for embracing body diversity. This bold and audacious book fearlessly tackles the societal stigma surrounding body image and celebrates the beauty and strength found in every individual, regardless of size.

Fat Girl Walking: Sex, Food, Love, and Being Comfortable in Your Skin…Every Inch of It

by Brittany Gibbons

Are you tired of society’s obsession with body image? Do you want to embrace your curves and live life on your own terms? Look no further than Fat Girl Walking: Sex, Food, Love, and Being Comfortable in Your Skin…Every Inch of It by Brittany Gibbons, a refreshing and empowering book about embracing your body, no matter what size.

In this honest and hilarious memoir, Gibbons shares her personal journey as a self-proclaimed “fat girl” and dives headfirst into topics that society often shies away from. From her experiences with sex and relationships to her love for food and fashion, she fearlessly tackles the stigmas surrounding being “plus-sized” and teaches us to love ourselves unapologetically.

Filled with wit, vulnerability, and relatable anecdotes, this book is a celebration of body positivity and self-acceptance. Gibbons proves that being fat, or any synonym you choose for it, doesn’t define your worth, happiness, or ability to live a fulfilling life.

So, if you’re craving a book that challenges societal norms, promotes self-love, and encourages you to embrace every inch of your beautiful self, Fat Girl Walking is the ultimate guide to being comfortable in your own skin. It’s time to break free from society’s narrow standards of beauty and start living life on your own terms!

Landwhale: On Turning Insults into Nicknames, Why Body Image Is Hard, and How Diets Can Kiss My Ass

by Jes Baker

Landwhale: On Turning Insults into Nicknames, Why Body Image Is Hard, and How Diets Can Kiss My Ass by Jes Baker is a groundbreaking book about the experience of being fat in a society obsessed with thinness. This raw and honest memoir delves into the author’s personal journey of self-acceptance, challenging societal norms, and embracing the beauty of all body sizes.

Described as a ‘book on being fat,’ Landwhale offers a refreshing perspective on body image, dismantling the harmful stereotypes and stigmas associated with being fat. Jes Baker, a prominent body positivity activist and blogger, shares her own struggles, triumphs, and the empowering process of reclaiming the word ‘landwhale’ as a nickname that celebrates her body instead of tearing it down.

This compelling ‘book about being fat’ explores the complexities of body image and the damaging effects of diet culture. Baker fearlessly confronts the multi-billion dollar industry that perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards, encouraging readers to reject harmful weight loss narratives and embrace their bodies as they are.

Through her engaging storytelling and witty writing style, Jes Baker invites readers to challenge their own preconceived notions about fatness and body image. She emphasizes the importance of self-love and self-acceptance, encouraging readers to embrace their bodies with all their flaws and imperfections.

Landwhale is a must-read for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on body positivity and the experience of being fat in a world that often marginalizes and shames those who don’t fit into narrow beauty standards. This empowering ‘being fat book’ will inspire readers to celebrate their bodies and reject society’s harmful messages, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and accepting world for all body sizes.

Things No One Will Tell Fat Girls: A Handbook for Unapologetic Living

by Jes Baker

Are you tired of society’s unrealistic beauty standards? Do you want to live a life free from shame and self-doubt? Look no further than Things No One Will Tell Fat Girls: A Handbook for Unapologetic Living by Jes Baker. This empowering book is not just another run-of-the-mill book on being fat; it is a revolutionary guide to embracing your body and living life to the fullest.

In this candid and unapologetic book about being fat, Jes Baker, also known as ‘The Militant Baker,’ takes readers on a journey of self-acceptance and body positivity. She challenges society’s narrow definition of beauty and encourages readers to find their own unique beauty, regardless of their size.

Baker’s writing is refreshingly honest and humorous, making it easy to connect with her message. She shares personal anecdotes, practical tips, and powerful insights that will inspire readers to love themselves unconditionally. From fashion and dating to mental health and activism, this book covers a wide range of topics that are relevant to anyone who has ever felt marginalized because of their size.

What sets this book apart is its emphasis on unapologetic living. Baker not only encourages readers to embrace their bodies but also to demand respect and equality in a society that often discriminates against fat individuals. She provides invaluable advice on how to navigate the world as a fat person, including strategies for dealing with fat-shaming and building a supportive community.

Whether you’re new to the body positivity movement or a seasoned advocate, Things No One Will Tell Fat Girls is a must-read. It challenges societal norms, celebrates diversity, and empowers readers to embrace their bodies unapologetically. So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-love and unapologetic living, grab a copy of this empowering book today.

The Body Is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love

by Sonya Renee Taylor

The Body Is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love by Sonya Renee Taylor is a groundbreaking book that challenges societal norms and empowers individuals to embrace their bodies unapologetically. It is a captivating exploration of self-acceptance and a powerful call to dismantle the oppressive systems that perpetuate body shame.

In this inspiring book on body liberation, Taylor delves into the experiences of people who have been marginalized and discriminated against due to their bodies, particularly those who fall outside of society’s narrow beauty standards. She encourages readers to cultivate radical self-love and dismantle the harmful narratives surrounding body image.

Through personal anecdotes, insightful research, and thought-provoking exercises, Taylor offers a roadmap to self-acceptance and liberation. She challenges readers to question the societal norms that equate worth with appearance and to embrace their bodies as unique and beautiful vessels.

With a refreshing and relatable writing style, Taylor explores various aspects of body image, including race, gender, disability, and size. She eloquently argues that self-love is not only a personal journey but also a political act, as it challenges the oppressive systems that profit from our insecurities.

The Body Is Not an Apology is not simply a book about being fat; it is a manifesto for embracing diversity and advocating for radical self-love. Taylor’s words are a powerful reminder that our bodies are not problems to be fixed but rather vessels of love, strength, and resilience. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to challenge societal norms and embark on a journey of self-acceptance and empowerment.

Fat: The Owner’s Manual

by Ragen Chastain

Are you tired of society’s constant judgment and misconceptions about being fat? Look no further than Fat: The Owner’s Manual by Ragen Chastain. This groundbreaking book on embracing your body and living a fulfilling life is a game-changer for anyone who has ever faced discrimination or struggled with self-acceptance.

The Fat Studies Reader

by Esther Rothblum and Sondra Solovay

The Fat Studies Reader is an eye-opening and empowering book about the experience of being fat. This groundbreaking anthology, edited by Esther Rothblum and Sondra Solovay, challenges societal norms and sheds light on the diverse perspectives and lived experiences of fat individuals. It is a thought-provoking collection of essays that aims to dismantle stereotypes and stigmas associated with fatness, exploring topics such as body image, fat activism, health, and discrimination. This book on being fat embraces diversity and advocates for body acceptance, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding and challenging society’s narrow views on body size.

The Fat Girl’s Guide to Life

by Wendy Shanker

The Fat Girl’s Guide to Life by Wendy Shanker is a refreshing and empowering book that tackles the sometimes taboo topic of body image and self-acceptance. It’s not just another run-of-the-mill book about being fat, but rather a witty and insightful guide to navigating life as a curvaceous woman in a society obsessed with unrealistic beauty standards.

Fat Shame: Stigma and the Fat Body in American Culture

by Amy Erdman Farrell

Are you ready to dig deep into the complex world of body image and societal standards? Look no further than Fat Shame: Stigma and the Fat Body in American Culture, a thought-provoking book by Amy Erdman Farrell. This groundbreaking work delves into the intricate layers of the ‘book on being fat’ phenomenon in American society.

Farrell fearlessly explores the multifaceted issues surrounding body weight in our culture, shedding light on the widespread ‘book about being fat’ stigma that plagues individuals who don’t conform to mainstream beauty standards. She dissects the intricate ways in which fatness has been constructed as a moral failing, examining the role of media, social institutions, and even medical professionals in perpetuating these harmful beliefs.

Through meticulous research and compelling analysis, Farrell challenges readers to question their own biases and preconceived notions about ‘being fat book.’ By examining the historical, social, and cultural factors that contribute to the fat-shaming epidemic, she encourages us to confront our own prejudices and strive for a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Farrell’s ‘being fat book’ is not just an informative exploration of body image; it is also a call to action. She highlights the importance of promoting body positivity and advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals who face discrimination due to their size. By amplifying the voices of those who have been marginalized, she empowers readers to challenge the status quo and work towards a more accepting and equitable future.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-reflection and societal transformation, pick up a copy of Fat Shame: Stigma and the Fat Body in American Culture. This eye-opening ‘book on being fat’ will challenge your perspective, ignite empathy, and inspire you to become an agent of change.

The Obesity Myth: Why America’s Obsession with Weight Is Hazardous to Your Health

by Paul Campos

The Obesity Myth: Why America’s Obsession with Weight Is Hazardous to Your Health by Paul Campos is a groundbreaking book on being fat that challenges society’s conventional beliefs about weight and health. Campos, a law professor and author, delves into the complex relationship between obesity and health, debunking many prevailing myths and shedding light on the harmful consequences of our society’s obsession with thinness.

The Fat Studies Reader 2.0

by Esther Rothblum and Sondra Solovay

The Fat Studies Reader 2.0: A Groundbreaking Exploration of Body Size and Identity

Get ready to challenge societal norms and dive into an eye-opening journey with The Fat Studies Reader 2.0. This thought-provoking book explores the multifaceted experiences of individuals who exist outside of society’s narrow beauty standards.

Billed as a “book on being fat,” The Fat Studies Reader 2.0 is an anthology that offers diverse perspectives on body size and identity. Through a collection of essays, personal narratives, and academic research, this book delves into the complexities and nuances of living in a world that often stigmatizes and marginalizes those who don’t conform to the prevailing notions of thinness.

But don’t be fooled by the word “fat” in the title; this book is about so much more than just body size. It’s an exploration of how societal attitudes towards being fat intersect with various aspects of identity, including gender, race, sexuality, and disability. By examining these intersections, The Fat Studies Reader 2.0 aims to dismantle harmful stereotypes and challenge the dominant narratives surrounding body size.

Whether you’re someone who has experienced the challenges of being fat firsthand or simply interested in gaining a deeper understanding of this often misunderstood topic, this book is a must-read. It encourages readers to question the status quo and promotes body positivity and inclusivity for people of all sizes.

If you’re ready to challenge your assumptions and broaden your perspective, grab a copy of The Fat Studies Reader 2.0 and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empathy. It’s time to embrace the beauty and diversity of all bodies and celebrate the richness that comes from embracing every individual’s unique experiences.

The Fat Studies Reader 3.0

by Esther Rothblum and Sondra Solovay

The Fat Studies Reader 3.0 is not just another book about being fat, it’s a groundbreaking exploration of the complex and diverse experiences of individuals who live in larger bodies. This thought-provoking anthology delves into the world of fatness, shedding light on the many social, cultural, and historical dimensions that shape our understanding of what it means to be fat.

Within its pages, you’ll find a treasure trove of essays, personal narratives, and academic articles that challenge conventional notions of beauty, health, and self-worth. This book on being fat offers a refreshing and inclusive perspective, amplifying the voices of those who have long been marginalized in mainstream society.

With chapters dedicated to topics such as fat activism, fat acceptance, body politics, and fat representation in media, The Fat Studies Reader 3.0 covers a wide range of issues that impact people of all sizes. It invites readers to question their own biases, confront societal prejudices, and embrace a more compassionate and inclusive understanding of body diversity.

Whether you’re someone who identifies as fat, an ally in the fight against fatphobia, or simply curious about the lived experiences of those who navigate a world that often discriminates against larger bodies, this being fat book is an essential read. It challenges the status quo, encourages critical thinking, and ultimately promotes a more inclusive and accepting society for all.

Fat Activism: A Radical Social Movement

by Charlotte Cooper

Book on Embracing Body Diversity:

Are you tired of society’s narrow beauty standards and ready to challenge them head-on? Look no further than Fat Activism: A Radical Social Movement by Charlotte Cooper. This empowering book about embracing body diversity is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt marginalized or discriminated against for their size.

Cooper’s groundbreaking work is not just another being fat book, but a powerful call to action. Through personal anecdotes, insightful interviews, and thought-provoking analysis, she explores the history and current state of the fat activism movement. With each turn of the page, she challenges societal norms and provides hope for those who have been made to feel invisible or inadequate due to their weight.

Using Fat Activism: A Radical Social Movement as a guide, readers will learn about the importance of body positivity, self-acceptance, and reclaiming the word “fat” as a neutral descriptor. Cooper’s writing is engaging and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with her message and find inspiration within its pages.

Beyond personal empowerment, this book on being fat delves into the intersectionality of body politics, race, gender, and class. Cooper emphasizes the need for a collective effort to challenge fatphobia and dismantle oppressive systems that perpetuate discrimination. She provides practical strategies for activism, encouraging individuals to stand up against fat-shaming and advocate for inclusive spaces.

Fat Activism: A Radical Social Movement is a game-changer, offering a fresh perspective on body image and paving the way for a more inclusive society. Whether you are new to the fat activism movement or a seasoned advocate, this book will leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to join the fight for body liberation.

Fat!So? : Because You Don’t Have to Apologize for Your Size

by Marilyn Wann

Fat!So? is an empowering book about embracing your size and not apologizing for it. Written by Marilyn Wann, this groundbreaking book on being fat challenges society’s narrow beauty standards and encourages readers to celebrate their bodies, regardless of their size.

With a refreshing and witty tone, Wann offers a refreshing perspective on body acceptance, making this book about being fat a must-read for anyone who has ever felt judged or marginalized because of their weight.

Wann shares her personal experiences and insights, debunking common myths about weight and health along the way. She emphasizes that being fat is not synonymous with being unhealthy, and that everyone deserves respect and acceptance, regardless of their size.

Through humor and intelligence, this book on being fat empowers readers to challenge societal norms and embrace their bodies with confidence. Wann provides practical advice on navigating the world as a fat person, offering tips on fashion, dating, and self-care.

Whether you’re new to body positivity or a seasoned advocate, this book about being fat will inspire you to love yourself unapologetically and challenge the harmful stereotypes that society perpetuates. It’s time to rewrite the narrative and embrace the beauty of diversity in all its forms.

The Fat Lady Sings: A Psychological Exploration of the Cultural Fat Complex and Its Effects

by Cheryl Fuller

The Fat Lady Sings: A Psychological Exploration of the Cultural Fat Complex and Its Effects by Cheryl Fuller is a groundbreaking book on the experience of being fat in our society. This thought-provoking and captivating work delves into the deep-rooted biases and prejudices that surround fatness, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of being fat.

Fuller takes readers on a journey through the psychological, social, and cultural aspects that contribute to the fat complex. She skillfully examines the ways in which our society stigmatizes and discriminates against individuals who don’t conform to societal standards of thinness. Through compelling storytelling and insightful analysis, Fuller challenges commonly held beliefs and offers a compassionate understanding of the fat experience.

This book about being fat is not simply a critique of societal norms, but also a guide to self-acceptance and empowerment. Fuller offers strategies for navigating the challenges that come with living in a fatphobic world and encourages readers to embrace their bodies and reject harmful cultural narratives.

With a blend of personal anecdotes, research-based evidence, and professional expertise, Fuller creates a comprehensive and engaging exploration of what it means to be fat in today’s society. She invites readers to question their own biases and confront the pervasive fat-shaming attitudes that exist in our culture.

The Fat Lady Sings is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the being fat experience. By shedding light on the psychological impact of the cultural fat complex, Fuller provides a thoughtful and transformative perspective on body image and self-acceptance.

Fat-Talk Nation: The Human Costs of America’s War on Fat

by Susan Greenhalgh

Fat-Talk Nation: The Human Costs of America’s War on Fat by Susan Greenhalgh is a groundbreaking exploration of the societal pressures and consequences surrounding body image and weight. This eye-opening book delves into the harmful effects of our society’s obsession with thinness and the damaging ‘fat-talk’ that permeates our everyday lives.

Greenhalgh’s gripping narrative exposes the human costs of this war on fat, shedding light on the emotional, physical, and psychological toll it takes on individuals. Through extensive research and personal stories, the author challenges the deeply ingrained beliefs and stereotypes that equate thinness with beauty and worth.

By examining the intersections of gender, race, and class, Fat-Talk Nation reveals the systemic inequalities and discrimination faced by those who do not fit society’s narrow standards of beauty. Greenhalgh’s nuanced analysis encourages readers to question and challenge the harmful narratives surrounding body size and to embrace a more compassionate and inclusive understanding of health and beauty.

This thought-provoking book about being fat is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the damaging effects of our society’s obsession with thinness and the profound impact it has on individuals’ lives. Fat-Talk Nation opens up an important dialogue and offers valuable insights into the complex issues surrounding body image, self-esteem, and societal expectations.

Fat, Pretty, and Soon to Be Old: A Makeover for Self and Society

by Kimberly Dark

“Fat, Pretty, and Soon to Be Old: A Makeover for Self and Society” is a groundbreaking book that delves deep into the often neglected topic of body image, specifically focusing on the experience of being fat. This thought-provoking and enlightening read challenges societal norms and perceptions surrounding body size, offering a fresh perspective on what it truly means to be ‘fat’ in our modern world.

Author Kimberly Dark fearlessly explores the complexities of fatness, shedding light on the many layers of discrimination, stigma, and prejudice that overweight individuals face on a daily basis. Through her personal anecdotes, extensive research, and captivating storytelling, Dark uncovers the harsh realities of living in a society that places so much emphasis on thinness and conventional beauty standards.

This book is not just about being fat; it is a powerful exploration of self-acceptance, body positivity, and the importance of challenging societal norms. Dark encourages readers to embrace their bodies, regardless of their size, and to dismantle the harmful beliefs that perpetuate the myth that only thinness equates to beauty and self-worth.

With a compassionate and empowering tone, Dark urges readers to question their own biases and assumptions about fatness, offering insights and guidance on how we can collectively create a more inclusive and accepting society. Through embracing diversity and promoting body positivity, we can challenge the harmful stereotypes that have long plagued those who are considered ‘fat.’

Whether you are someone who has struggled with body image or simply want to broaden your understanding of the experiences of others, “Fat, Pretty, and Soon to Be Old” is a must-read. This book will not only challenge your perspectives but inspire you to embrace your own unique beauty, regardless of society’s narrow standards.

The Fat Studies Handbook

by Esther Rothblum and Sondra Solovay

The Fat Studies Handbook is a groundbreaking and enlightening book on being fat that challenges society’s narrow beauty standards and explores the complexities of living in a fat body. Written by Esther Rothblum and Sondra Solovay, this comprehensive book about being fat dives deep into the societal, cultural, and personal experiences of individuals who are often marginalized due to their size.

Instead of perpetuating harmful stereotypes and promoting weight loss as the ultimate goal, Rothblum and Solovay offer a refreshing perspective on what it means to embrace one’s body and challenge societal norms. They examine a wide range of topics, including fat activism, health at every size, discrimination and stigma, and the intersectionality of fatness with race, gender, and sexuality.

The being fat book brings together a diverse range of voices, including scholars, activists, and individuals who share their personal stories, making it a powerful and relatable read. It encourages readers to question the prevailing biases and prejudices surrounding fatness and challenges them to reevaluate their own beliefs and attitudes.

Through a combination of academic research, personal narratives, and thought-provoking analysis, The Fat Studies Handbook offers a compelling and empowering exploration of what it means to live in a fat body in a fatphobic world. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding and dismantling fat stigma and promoting body acceptance for all.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about being fat offer a diverse range of perspectives, stories, and insights into the complex and often misunderstood experiences of individuals living in larger bodies. From memoirs to fiction, these books challenge societal norms and shed light on the emotional, psychological, and physical struggles faced by those who navigate a world that often stigmatizes fatness. Whether you are looking for inspiration, understanding, or simply a good read, these books are sure to captivate and enlighten readers of all backgrounds. Explore these powerful narratives and embrace the richness and diversity of stories about being fat.