Susan Cohen (1) (1948–)

This book is a comprehensive review of the history of the various ways the medical industry has intervened to manipulate the stature of growing children in the U.S. Moving through the past fifty years, the authors review the methods, both physical and pharmaceutical, which have been used to make girls shorter and boys taller. In the end, it seems that the authors indict "big pharma" for the very same reasons they are criticized for so much they do: creating medical conditions where none exist and manipulating parents and their children into buying drugs for conditions which are part of the natural order of things.

As one Stanford researcher said: "All of these levels are arbitrary, and it was as good an arbitrary point as any. And no endocrinologist contested that, because we were all anxious to open up the opportunity of growth hormone therapy to as many children as possible."

Using personal stories to show the unintended effects these drugs have had on those who've taken them really makes the book come alive. Sometimes these stories are heartwarming, in other cases they are devastating.… (mais)

A fascinating and somewhat frightening look into society's definition of "normalcy" and appearance. Without being dry or too scientific, the authors present a compelling case against medication or treatment for height, appearance, etc. Reading this reminded me of a boy from elementary school who was quite small for his age. He was treated with a variety of horrifying-sounding remedies and ended up being a man of short stature who probably would have been better off if he'd just been left alone. A very readable and accessible book.… (mais)

Normal At Any Cost tells the story of how the definition of "normal" in relation to one's society can end up costing much more than simply psychological damage. I entered puberty shortly after the events in this book took place, and as I'm considered tall for a woman, I'm thankful my parents didn't feel the pressure to force me to conform to what society thought a girl should look like. This book is a warning to all parents - we want the best for our children, but sometimes that means leaving them alone.… (mais)