Strong Is the New Sexy: A Kick Ass Memoir

Most readers will know Polizzi as Snooki from Jersey Shore, and those who do probably still maintain a perception of her as a hard-drinking, hard-partying stereotype. She has spent the last five years trying to change that perception: becoming a wife and mother, getting herself away from drinking, and committing herself to fitness and her family. Her newest book, after 2013's Baby Bumps, is a comprehensive account of her experiences of marriage, parenthood, and getting herself into shape. She gives readers advice about her attempts to reshape her appearance and her image, but mostly about how to come at these things from a place of strength, health, and self-esteem. Her peace with herself and the positivity she exudes are obvious on every page, and even the most cynical readers will be hard-pressed to criticize her. The workout and diet advice is also solid and sends the right message of self-care and diligence rather than offering a magical plan for skinniness. While at times she is a bit too direct, readers will welcome the chance to get to know the new Polizzi. (Oct.)