Paper Thin

Author Shelia M. Goss tackles the important issue of weight and body image in Paper Thin.

Living with her emotionally absent father and a stepmother who spoils her, Sierra doesn’t lack for material things, but she still struggles with the pain of losing her birth mother at an early age. Sierra hides her fears and disappointments behind food and fashion.

Sierra has always been more curvaceous than her friends, but after time spent at a weight loss camp, she returns to school twenty-five pounds lighter. Her sudden weight loss gives her a new level of confidence, and she goes from being sweet to displaying a diva-like attitude. Her best friends, Britney and Jasmine, are quick to point out this new change.

In Sierra’s mind, her life should be more fabulous, since she is now thinner, but as the homecoming dance gets closer, she still hasn’t been asked to attend. Jealousy sets in as Britney and Jasmine excitedly discuss their wardrobe for the upcoming dance.

Determined to win the attention of the new guy at school, Sierra goes on a quest to lose more weight by any means necessary. Will Sierra realize, before she destroys her health, that it’s not her size that’ll attract guys?

Drama follows the three friends into their sophomore year. Once again, their friendship is tested. During the growth process, Sierra learns the importance of being average-size and healthy, rather than starving to be paper thin.