Skinny Bastard

March 30, 2009
Apparently fearing their market's reaching the saturation point, the latest iteration of Freedman and Barnouin's bestselling Skinny Bitch series goes after another demographic entirely-men-but without altering the strident, withering approach they've perfected in Skinny Bitch and its follow-ups. That may be a mistake-the kind of cutting humor that comes off as challenging when aimed at fellow women seems (rightly or wrongly) more chilling when aimed across the gender aisle, with the real possibility of turning men off. Still, those happy to take the scorn with the solution are invited to "strap on a pair...and get ripped." Much of the strict Skinny Girl regimen is translated directly: sugar, simple carbs, meat and dairy are out; fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains and whole wheat are in. The authors also discuss evidence for and against soy, the male epidemic of hypertension and heart disease, and the failings of government health-monitoring departments (like the USDA and FDA). Helpful grace notes include a chapter of support for the big changes (titled "Don't Be a Pussy") and shopping lists of approved brands and foods.

May 18, 2009
Freedman and Barnouin, authors of Skinny Bitch and Skinny Bitch in the Kitch: Kick-Ass Recipes for Hungry Girls Who Want To Stop Cooking Crap (and Start Looking Hot!) bring their brand of motivational writing to the men in our lives. Verdict: Aside from some colorful language, this volume reads much as any other provegan lifestyle guide. Readers are urged to give up all processed sugars, meat, and dairy. Grocery lists, month menus, and recommended cookbooks are included-but the lack of actual recipes is an unfortunate omission. And while the authors recommend exercise, they fail to specify how much and what kinds of physical activity are most effective.-Rachel M. Minkin, Lansing Community Coll., MI

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