Book Club: What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat by Aubrey Gordon
What you’ll learn:
In What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat, Aubrey Gordon—known widely as "Your Fat Friend"—delivers a powerful and deeply personal examination of the systemic bias and stigma faced by fat people. This book challenges the societal narratives around fatness, unpacking how these biases harm individuals and perpetuate discrimination in healthcare, media, workplaces, and beyond.
Gordon combines personal stories with meticulously researched evidence, revealing the devastating effects of fatphobia while advocating for radical shifts in how we view and treat fat bodies. Expect to gain a clearer understanding of weight bias, the myth of health equating to thinness, and actionable insights for becoming an ally in the fight against fat discrimination.
Why it matters:
Gordon writes with a mix of unflinching honesty, compassion, and humor, drawing readers into a conversation that’s as challenging as it is necessary. Her words resonate deeply, reminding us that behind every statistic is a human being deserving of respect and dignity.
This book pushes readers to confront uncomfortable truths about weight bias while inspiring hope for a future where bodies are valued for who they are—not how they look. Gordon’s advocacy empowers readers to question their own assumptions, challenge societal norms, and take steps toward creating a more equitable and inclusive world.
What you can do:
Gordon doesn’t just reveal the problem—she provides tangible ways to support fat justice and dismantle fatphobia in your everyday life. Here are three key takeaways you can put into practice:
Examine Your Biases: Reflect on your own assumptions about weight and health. Challenge the automatic association of thinness with virtue or success.
Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Push for systemic changes in areas like healthcare, workplaces, and schools to ensure fat people receive equitable treatment and respect.
Speak Up Against Fatphobia: Whether it’s in conversations with friends or addressing biased policies, use your voice to challenge discrimination and promote inclusivity.
What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat is a bold, eye-opening read that calls on all of us to do better—for ourselves, for those we love, and for society at large. Aubrey Gordon’s work challenges us to see the humanity in every body and take actionable steps toward justice and equality.
If you’re ready to dig into this vital conversation and explore your role in dismantling fatphobia, this book is a must-read.
Morgan x
