I am interrupting our regular programming of Amazing Mama Mondays to share this completely insane story with you. Sadly, because we live in America in 2008, it is true. This past Mother's Day Florida-based plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Salzhauer, released his first children's book, My Beautiful Mommy. This is a book for children who are confused about their mommy's upcoming plastic surgery and why she will look different. The cover is so amusing, I thought it was a joke, but alas it isn't. Isn't Mommy beautiful with her new nose, jumbo boobs and trim tummy. She is downright sparkly, just like a Disney Princess.
At first glance this book is truly comical. Want a laugh? This is what Dr. Michael looks like in real life. Take a look inside the book. This is what Dr. Michael looks like in his book. He's a super hero here to save mommies from their saggy breasts! Inflata-man here to save the day!
But a second look at this book, which was written for the 4-7 year old market, shows how truly sad and dangerous it is. On one page the Mommy explains, "Not just different honey … prettier," while she is imagining herself being crowned in a beauty pageant. The little girl looks alarmed and replies, "But you are already the prettiest mommy in the whole wide world!" I wonder if the author knows how real this interaction is. Our kids do think we are the prettiest mommy in the world. It is one of the most wonderful things about having young kids. I put on a dress, Sarah is in awe. Emily is perpetually telling me I "look pretty." What we do with this impressionable window in our daughters' lives is critical. What we teach our daughters today about self image, is what we will reap ten years from now. If our response to "Mommy you are beautiful," is "Oh if only I could lose 20 lbs," or "Well, mommy will be prettier when Dr. Michael is done with me," than Dr. Michael better get working on a second book. Here are some suggested titles for him; Mommy I Need a New Nose – preparing for your daughter's first plastic surgery or how about Saturday with Sophie – a parents guide to visiting your daughter in Eating Disorder Rehab.
