REVIVING OPHELIA

Pipher's disturbing book, the result of more than twenty years as a therapist for adolescent girls, examines the causes of depression, eating disorders and substance abuse among teenaged girls. Our culture, Pipher says, urges girls to abandon their true selves in favor of an image created by Hollywood and ad agencies. Linda Stephens gives a solid reading of this book, bringing to life the case studies that are the heart of the book. She makes no attempt to capture the voices of all the girls or their parents, wisely choosing to let their words speak for themselves. She is most convincing when she's speaking as Pipher, with compassion and alarm. P.B.J. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 99]