Book Reviews for "Little Kick in the Butt" books

"Life is too short not to live it well. Yeah right--so after a lifetime of inertia, what are you supposed to do about that? It's simple: read this entertaining new book from author Michelle Theall. Her easy strategies take it just one day at a time, adding up to a healthier and happier you in just 30 days."
--Doug Crichton
Editor-in-Chief, Health magazine

"Theall's unique 30-day approach to health is a must-read for those seeking to live longer and fuller lives...This book will leave readers inspired and motivated to commit day by day to a lifetime of better health."
--Sarah Murray
The Women's Sports Foundation

"I'm pretty certain I'm not the only one who gets overwhelmed by all the shoulds and shouldn'ts in the taking-care-of-yourself department. Luckily, I've discovered Michelle's "little kick-in-the-butt" series of books. She breaks everything down in such manageable tasks that I find myself eagerly awaiting the next day's assignment (I promised not to skip ahead). Plus, Michelle writes in such a warm, "we're all in this together" manner that I can't help but think she's a true friend on the path, which is something I'm ever grateful for."
--Linda Sparrowe
Editor-in-chief of Alternative Medicine magazine

"Michelle's struggle with Multiple Sclorosis has given her a unique perspective and insight into the psychological component of training, as well as practical information, all compiled into a text that is both witty and inspiring to read."
--Lynn Hill
Professional Rock Climber

Author Q & A with Michelle Theall,
"Little Kick in the Butt" books

There are so many health and fitness books on the market. Why was it important to get these books out there?

Let's face it. We all know what we need to do. We don't need anyone else telling us to eat right, exercise, and lower our stress. Instead, we need concrete ways to get motivated and break down our overall goals into digestible increments. These books lead you down the road to better health one single day at a time using inspiration and common sense. No other books in this category use a 30-day approach. Most offer unrealistic quick fixes.

How did you decide upon the little book scale for this series?

I've seen some "simple" how-to books that are upwards of 300 pages. I could lift weights with some of the Dummies series books-they're so thick and heavy. The Kick in the Butt books are meant to be read a single chapter per day and take no more than five to ten minutes of your time. One of the reasons people don't work out regularly is because they can't fit it into their day. No need to add an hour’s worth of reading onto an already overbooked schedule. It would only contribute to the problem. The small books give one single task for the day - just one. It allows the reader to focus, feel accomplishment, and build confidence. It's a tangible path to success.

The books begin with personal vignettes. What made you decide to open up to readers this way?

In 2003, I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. If I can do the things in these books, anyone can. The vignettes are meant to inspire readers to take charge of their health one day at a time. I wanted to make the stories thought provoking and entertaining and show that fitness and health books could be exciting and compelling. Becoming more healthy and getting back in shape are psychological battles as much as physical ones. Motivation is key.

How do you define "healthy"?

The media focuses too much on weight loss. Skinny doesn't mean healthy. Weight is only a part of the equation. A healthy person obtains wellness of mind and body.

Do the tasks in these books work long term?

Absolutely. Because instead of focusing on how great you'll look in a size 2 pair of jeans, they focus on lifestyle changes you can embrace and perhaps even enjoy. The tasks are meant to be incorporated into your day, then your week, your month, and your year. Enjoy living life to its fullest - actively engaging in it - and the results will follow.

Who should buy these books?

Anyone who needs a tiny boost - a little kick in the butt - to get going from wherever they are on the health and fitness ladder of life.

Michelle TheallMichelle Theall is the founder and publisher of Women's Adventure magazine. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2003, Theall found herself fighting for her health - without a personal trainer or live-in chef - just like people everywhere. She is an avid outdoor athlete, running, rock climbing, snowboarding, hiking, and backpacking as often as possible. Theall lives in Boulder, Colorado.
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