Review for Jemima J by Jane Green

Jemima Jones is overweight. Very overweight and she can’t help but feel that her life needs a drastic change because when the going gets tough Jemima eats for comfort whether that’s because she’s yet again being treated like a slave by her bitchy gorgeous flatmates or because she’s stuck working on the Top Tips column at the Kilburn Herald when what Jemima really wants to do is write for a glossy fashion magazine or because Ben - office hunk, and good friend - will never see her as more than just that, a friend. Jemima begins to wonder if people would treat her differently if she were to lose the weight but can Jemima reinvent herself and land the life of her dreams? And more importantly should she have to change the way she looks to get the life she wants? Jemima J is the ultimate makeover novel that will appeal to women everywhere. The reader is put in Jemima’s shoes, the shoes of a larger than life lady trying to make a career for herself in fashion capitol London. Jemima shows us the prejudice and assumptions that come along with her size. Although Jemima’s story is ultimately funny and light it also packs a punch about image and body confidence. Jemima J is an honest, touching, hilarious story that every girl who has ever been body conscious will relate to, nodding along with Jemima thinking “she’s just like me!” Jemima is one of the loveliest, funniest heroines I’ve ever had the pleasure to read about. This girl has a heart of gold and I so badly wanted things to work out for her. You also can’t help but fall in love with Ben just as deeply as Jemima has. He’s intelligent, sweet, sexy and charming the perfect romantic hero. I also found myself really liking Geraldine Jemima’s friend from work who grows on you more and more as you read the book. She really proves herself to be a brilliant friend to Jemima when she needs her most. The characters are very warm and likeable making them an absolute joy to read about. I’ve read a few of Jane Green’s books and seem to prefer her earlier books to her newer ones. They have a much younger, funnier feel to them and this is probably my favourite of hers to date. Jemima J is chick-lit gold and is now a firm favourite of mine in the genre. This is a totally feel good book which mixes low self-esteem, addiction, wit, fate, love and friendship together creating a comforting compulsively readable book. Perfect to snuggle up with on one of those ugly duckling days it will boost your mood and your confidence. I’d recommend this book to anyone who’s ever looked in the mirror and has been less than happy with what they see. 4.5 stars. My Rating 4.5/5 stars ****1/2