1 Childhood (1974-1982) Summary and Analysis

In this section, Marya writes about her childhood, from her birth until she is eight years old. This is the time in her life before her eating disorders surface. However, Marya writes that it is possibly circumstances during this time in her life that cause her disorder to begin.

Marya opens her chapter on her childhood by describing purging the first time as a nine year in her parents' house. She rewinds time to a picture of a five-year-old fighting with a friend over whether or not they are dieting. Even at the age of five, Marya already is feeling the need to be thin. It is important to note that Marya's mother is her idol. She writes that she sees her mother as being thin. She also watches the way in which her mother plays with her food...