Billy-- you are awesome for seeking out that book.

I can never understand the body issue brought up in the book in its context. But as far as general body issues, as I'm raising a daughter it's something that concerns me. I used to work in publishing so I know how fake the media image is and plan on being very very frank about this through her life.

I have read about studies where it's found that young women get cues about their own beauty by what their mother says about herself. Different girls with serious body issues would say that they would watch their moms look at themselves in the mirror and say how fat they were, or how ugly they were. Thankfully I don't do either-- I like me!-- but like anyone else I'll mindlessly throw out a comment about needing to shed a few pounds. Now, I try to keep this to myself!

It's got to start young, too. Surprisingly I've noticed how much little girl clothing veers to the skimpy. I'm no prude, but I like childhood to last a long time. I am surprised at what passes for little girls' wear. They are not small adults!

Knowing/admitting that you need to shed "a few pounds" is healthy.
Obsessing about it is not.

true, but my general point is being a good example.

Exactly. It's in the home. Lead by example. Nine times out of 10. Heavy, unhealthy parents = heavy unhealthy kids. Encourage "wellness", good eating habits and exercise and you are well ahead of the game. This in itself will do wonders for self image.