Review of "Sunny Side Up" by Katie Sturino: A Refreshing Dive into Body Positivity and Romance
When I first stumbled upon Katie Sturino’s debut novel, "Sunny Side Up," I was immediately drawn in by the promise of a story that combined romance with a refreshing body-positive message. As someone who’s always appreciated narratives that challenge societal norms, I couldn’t wait to dive into the life of Sunny Greene, a vibrant thirty-five-year-old divorcée who is determined to live life on her own terms. And let me tell you, Sturino did not disappoint!
At the heart of "Sunny Side Up" is Sunny Greene, whose journey post-divorce pulls readers along for a ride that is both relatable and empowering. Fresh from her split with sports executive Zack, she finds herself attending her brother’s wedding solo—a scenario that sparks panic but also ignites her entrepreneurial spirit as she creates SONNY, a size-inclusive luxury swimwear line. Sturino crafts a protagonist who doesn’t need “fixing”; instead, her narrative is one of self-acceptance, growth, and the importance of living authentically, which resonates deeply.
What particularly struck me was how Sturino navigates the romantic landscape without falling into the usual tropes associated with love triangles. Sunny’s love interests—Dennis, the charming mailman, and Ted, the suave businessman—each represent different facets of what she seeks. Sturino skillfully avoids making either man a villain, which adds layers to Sunny’s internal conflict and strengthens the emotional resonance of the story.
The strength of "Sunny Side Up" lies not just in its narrative but in its unflinching approach to body positivity. Sturino does not shy away from the harsh realities that individuals in larger bodies face; from clothing struggles to microaggressions, her portrayal is authentic and hard-hitting. One of the most powerful moments is when Sunny experiences a panic attack while trying on clothes, a poignant reminder of the societal pressures surrounding body image. In that moment, you can feel her determination to carve out a space for herself.
Sturino’s writing style is infused with contemporary energy that mirrors the complexities of modern life. Her dialogue sparkles with wit, delivering not just laughs but genuine connections, especially with Sunny’s close friends, who provide both support and comic relief. While the narrative’s pacing sometimes slows during business-related scenes, the insight into entrepreneurship remains engaging, particularly for those interested in the fashion world.
However, it’s important to note that "Sunny Side Up" isn’t without its flaws. At times, the resolution of Sunny’s romantic dilemma feels a bit rushed, and some supporting characters teeter on the edge of caricature. Yet, these minor issues cannot overshadow Sturino’s broader, more meaningful contributions to conversations around body diversity and female empowerment.
For anyone who enjoys contemporary romance that resonates with real-life issues, especially themes of body acceptance, entrepreneurship, and the deep bonds of female friendship, "Sunny Side Up" will be a delightful read. It isn’t just a love story; it’s a narrative that champions self-love and the courage to forge one’s path.
Reading "Sunny Side Up" felt like having a heart-to-heart with a dear friend—one who inspires you to embrace your quirks and embrace life authentically. Sturino has set a strong foundation with this debut, and I eagerly await her future works, hoping they continue to pave the way for stories that champion individuality and celebrate the beauty of diverse experiences.