The Food Contrarian
Quotes for People Recovering from or Dealing with Eating Issues
Carl “Tuchy” Palmieri
www.booksurge.com
ISBN: 1-4196-7515-X       196 pages 

The Food Contrarian by Carl “Tuchy” Palmieri is a book of quotes that will give people a better understanding of 12-step programs, encourage those who are presently active in them, and in particular, help those who are struggling with eating disorders. The quotes are thought-provoking, challenging, and filled with wit and wisdom that readers will find helpful and inspiring, whether during an emergency or as a daily reading resource.  In this fast-paced world, individuals sometimes need self-help material they can read within their own self-imposed time restraints.  The Food Contrarian fills this need perfectly. Each quote is a ray of light that inspires those who are fighting addictions to look beyond the darkness where there is hope for recovery.  I would advise readers to memorize a few of their favorite quotes where they can surface at a moment’s notice.   

In reading the quotes, individuals will learn what food can and cannot do for them.  They will also learn what it is and what it isn’t.  Besides filling the stomach with physical food, the author places much importance on spiritual and emotional nutrition, referring to it as the “real” comfort food. There is much emphasis on faith and prayer that complement the steps to recovery, and readers will find the writings inspirational whether they struggle with an addiction or simply with the problems of everyday living.   

Although I highlighted many sections of this book that I considered to be special, when I read a letter on page 176, I could not hold back the tears.  It is a letter to a friend from a friend that is incredibly touching.   When you purchase The Food Contrarian and read this letter, I believe you will agree and understand my feelings. 

My next-door-neighbor, who has since moved away, was addicted to food.   I wish that I had been able to hand her this book because I think it would have made a difference in her life. As someone who has done considerable counseling, I am convinced that this is a valuable resource for those suffering from eating disorders. Health professionals in all fields should have a copy for use in their practices, and libraries should consider it a “must buy” when they spend their allotted budget money.  I highly recommend this book, hoping that those with eating disorders will reach for it when tempted to fill their plates a second time at the dinner table or to act out in some other destructive way. 

Bettie Corbin Tucker
For IP Book Reviewers
May 19, 2008