Real Women Have Curves

With more humor and meaning than the movie this quick read will leave you with a new perspective and an extra laugh line or two. The comedy, though wry and cynical at times, is easily for women to identify with but might be a bit much for men. If you're a fan of the movie you really ought to read the play that inspired it. The play has the depth, plot, and well-rounded character developement that the movie seems to lack.

I was able to have Josefina Lopez as a Proffesor for one of my Chicano Studies classes. She was vibrant full of energy and most importantly full of Chicana pride. She is literally a story of triumph. A Latina who grew up in a confusing and ever changing environment. She broke out of the mold that her traditional family set on her and has written many plays and has even acquired her masters from UCLA. She began writing plays when she was about 16 or 18 I believe. When we began to read her book entitled "Real Women Have Curves" we imagined ourselves being persecuted by immigration and we placed ourselves in the shoes of the characters. This is a story that is loosely based on her. It is a story that is directed more to the Latino/a population. It's a book in which many situations are found to be hilarious only because they are easy to relate with and so profoundly "REAL." Perhaps, this is why some people find her book to be a "drag" and it's because you must be able to relate and associate yourself with the situations. It is a book that touches upon diseases such as Anorexia and Bulimia. These are destructive diseases which affect the majority of the youth. The book sends out the clear universal message that "REAL Women Have Curves" and that we are all strong women that come in different shapes and sizes. We must empower ourselves with knowledge and love. We must not hate our bodies or try to hide it. We should not conform to what society and the media says we should look like. All women do not fit into a size "4 or 6." Her messages are quite clear and can easily enpower the latino/a youth.This is an excellent book that should be read out loud and acted out with friends. Her plays are even hilarious! Please look for them and make it a point to attend. As for her new movie I haven't seen it, but I recommend the play it is live action and it is incredible.