45 Pounds (More or Less)

Young consumers will see the potential pitfalls of purchasing items seen in infomercials. They'll also learn about eating disorders and the ways issues around food and body image can affect girls at different ages.

Ann, the narrator of 45 Pounds (More or Less), learns a lot about herself from dieting and exploring the reasons for her food struggles. She makes significant strides toward healthy living, greater understanding of herself and others, and better self-esteem. She ultimately sets a good example for her little sister and for readers who are concerned about their weight.

Ann describes the warm way she feels when Jon puts his arm around her or helps her in the shoe store. There's a bit of innuendo when Ann starts working at Twisted Pretzel and Jon is her first customer; he jokes that he's glad to be "her first." Other characters discuss the fact that Ann's father cheated on her mom, and may be doing the same to Nancy, his second wife.

There are lots of brand-name products and stores, real and fictional. Real brands include Victoria's Secret, Coke, Cheetos, Little Debbie snack cakes, Facebook, and YouTube.