The first study to look at the impact of literature on obese adolescents, by Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center, produced surprising results.  Researchers asked obese girls ages 9 to 13 who were enrolled in a comprehensive weight-loss program to read an age-appropriate novel called Lake Rescue. The book, crafted with the aid of pediatric experts, includes specific healthy lifestyle and weight management guidance, as well as positive messages and strong role models.

Six months later, the girls who had read Lake Rescue experienced a significant decrease in their body mass index scores when compared with a control group in the program who had not read the novel.

Source:  Duke University Medical Center, 2008