The Best Little Girl in the World

Best Little Girl in the World cover

The Best Little Girl in the World is a novel by American author Steven Levenkron published in 1978. The story revolves around a young girl named Francesca Dietrich, who struggles with anorexia nervosa. The novel delves into the complexities of eating disorders, exploring the psychological, physical, and social challenges faced by those who suffer from them. It also examines the impact of Francesca's condition on her family and her journey towards recovery.

Plot Summary

The narrative follows Francesca Dietrich, a 15-year-old ballet dancer who aspires to perfection in every aspect of her life. Under immense pressure to excel and driven by a distorted self-image, Francesca begins to restrict her food intake, believing that she is overweight. Her obsession with weight loss spirals into full-blown anorexia nervosa, leading her to dangerous health complications.

As Francesca's condition worsens, her family becomes increasingly concerned. They struggle to understand her disorder and seek help from medical professionals. The novel portrays the challenges of treating eating disorders, highlighting the importance of a supportive and understanding environment for the patient's recovery.

Themes

The Best Little Girl in the World addresses several significant themes, including the pursuit of perfection, the impact of societal and familial expectations on young individuals, and the struggle with self-identity. It also sheds light on the serious nature of eating disorders, emphasizing that they are complex mental health conditions requiring professional treatment.

Reception

Upon its release, the novel received critical acclaim for its insightful portrayal of anorexia nervosa and its empathetic depiction of those who suffer from eating disorders. It has been praised for raising awareness about the condition and contributing to a better understanding of its challenges.

Adaptations

In 1981, the novel was adapted into a television movie of the same name, starring Jennifer Jason Leigh as Francesca. The film further popularized the story and its themes, reaching a wider audience and sparking discussions about eating disorders and mental health.

See Also

• Eating disorders
• Anorexia nervosa
• Mental health