Body Positivity Book: Debunking the Myth of Health in Plus-Size Paris

International author Erin Zhurkin publishes new novel, Plus-Size in Paris

Inspired by the body positivity movement, Erin Zhurkin’s latest novel, Plus-Size in Paris, promotes an idealistic image of “health at every size.” The story follows Abby Allerton, a young and “plus-sized” social media influencer who leads a double life on Instagram. One account, “Femme Fatale,” features her petite childhood friend as the face of the profile, advertising high-end brands. The other account, “Plus-Size Real,” serves as a platform for Allerton’s body-image activism.

Drama strikes when Allerton finds herself unexpectedly jetting off to France. The organizers of a premier fashion show in Paris invite Femme Fatale to cover their event, assuming her friend would be the face of the account. Despite the mix-up, Allerton seizes the opportunity to fulfill her long-held dream of visiting France. However, she soon discovers that the French have different attitudes towards overweight visitors compared to Americans. While the book is titled Plus-Size in Paris, it could easily be called Too Fat for France.

The novel takes readers on Allerton’s month-long journey in France, where obesity rates are less than half of what they are in the U.S. It’s a tale reminiscent of “The Devil Wears Prada,” with Allerton navigating an industry known for its strict body standards. Throughout the book, songs by Lizzo and Meghan Trainor serve as Allerton’s anthems, adding a contemporary touch to the story.

While the book is charming and an easy read, the message it conveys is that there’s no such thing as being “too fat.” Allerton uses her platform in France to prove this point. However, her sense of entitlement and lack of personal responsibility frustrate the French, who are not accustomed to the acceptance of excess weight that Americans have.

The Reality of Health and Obesity

The book raises important questions about personal health and societal stigmas. It’s worth noting that today, we’re not healthy at any size. Data analysis shows that only 3 percent of adults in the U.S. are in perfect health, while 88 percent suffer from some form of metabolic dysfunction. These statistics are largely influenced by our diet and lifestyle choices.

While Allerton blames genetics for her weight, experts argue that genetics alone cannot explain obesity. Pediatric neuroendocrinologist Dr. Robert Lustig explains that only two genes out of thirty-nine have any significant clinical impact on obesity. Therefore, genetics cannot be used as a scapegoat for the rise in obesity rates.

“If you had every other obesity risk gene, it would only explain ten kilograms or twenty-two pounds of weight, hardly enough to explain the population rise in obesity. Genetics are important, but not the biggest reason for obesity.”

Obesity itself carries severe risks of developing chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cancer, which shorten lifespans and increase healthcare costs. While fat-shaming is inappropriate, glorifying obesity for personal gratification is a dangerous response. It’s important not to buy into the lie that “every size” is inherently “healthy.”