"[5] Publishers Weekly called the book a passionate critique of fatphobia but felt that it was overextended, that Manne "understates the structural social justices", and that her argument "fails to convince.

"[6] Kirkus Reviews called it a "brave, thought-provoking book" and stated that "With rigorous research and personal experience, Manne tackles and dismantles fatphobia in all its forms.

"[8] Regan Penaluna, writing for the Chicago Review of Books, was compelled by Manne's deconstruction of fatphobia in its lack of rational, empirical basis while simultaneously deploying her own well-researched argument against it.

It’s a profound challenge that is worth our time, as Manne makes clear in this superb book full of insight and hope.

Clein argued that Manne sometimes blamed possible victims of diet culture and didn't provide compassion to her bullies "who ... were probably hurting too, acting out of the terror and shame instilled in girls as soon as they become self-aware in this country.