Tote bag full of fresh vegetables

Going veg is a voyage, not a destination.

The Smart Girl's Guide to Going Vegetarian (Sourcebooks Fire, 2014) is a comprehensive, non-judgemental, supportive book that will help any veg-curious teen navigate the challenges that arise when transitioning to a meatless or less meat diet.  Whether you're looking to be more conscious about the animal foods you consume, decrease the amount of meat you eat, or give it up altogether, this book has got your back. 

 
 
“I haven’t seen any other book like this. It’s the resource I wish I had when I was 17 and became a vegetarian! A must for any teen considering becoming vegetarian or vegan, even part-time.”
— Cynthia Sass, MPH, RD, three-time New York Times best selling author and contributing nutrition editor at HEALTH magazine
“Where was this book when I was a teen?...A standout guide for anyone curious about vegetarianism.”
— Jami Harrison, Central Arkansas Library System
“Using humor, honesty, and offering a variety of resources, Rachel Meltzer Warren shares her experiences as a former budding vegetarian and as a nutritionist...The Smart Girl’s Guide to Going Vegetarian is helpful to anyone who is concerned about or considering vegetarianism.”
— Cicely Douglas, Palm Beach County Library System
“Detailed yet concise, this guide to vegetarianism encompasses a broad range of possible choices for teens interested in adopting plant-based diets....an upbeat, informative resource that will come in handy for many a teen.”
— Kirkus Review
“...a realistic, accessible, and enriching plan for readers in the beginning stages of embracing vegetarianism or other diets, from vegan to “ethical carnivore.” ...Those who aren’t set on giving up meat products entirely but want to improve their health through creative and informed eating will also benefit from Warren’s nuanced approach, which emphasizes the importance of eating according one’s personal values over any prescribed notions.”
— Publishers Weekly
 

What's inside the book

The Smart Girl's Guide to Going Vegetarian: How to Look Great, Feel Fabulous, and Be a Better You walks you through every stage of going veg, whether you are just curious or already committed. Inside you will find:

  • A quiz to find your place on the "Veggie Spectrum," from part-time veg to vegan, so you can choose an approach that fits your life and values.
  • Myths and realities about going veg, so you can answer the questions friends and family are bound to ask.
  • Nutrition basics written by a registered dietitian nutritionist, covering protein, iron, calcium, vitamin B12 and more.
  • A guide to eating out, from fast food to fancy restaurants.
  • Tips for finding a veg-friendly college and surviving the dining hall.
  • Advice for dealing with doubtful parents and making family meals work.
  • Meat-free recipes that teens can actually make.

Who it's for

The book is written for teens (the publisher recommends it for ages 12 and up) who are thinking about eating less meat or giving it up, as well as for teens who are already vegetarian or vegan and want to do it in a healthy way. Parents, teachers, librarians and anyone who cooks for a veg-curious teen will find it useful too.

Book details

  • Title: The Smart Girl's Guide to Going Vegetarian: How to Look Great, Feel Fabulous, and Be a Better You
  • Author: Rachel Meltzer Warren, MS, RDN
  • Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire, 2014
  • ISBN: 978-1-4022-8491-5 (paperback)

Find out where to buy the book, or keep learning on the blog with guides like how much protein vegetarian teens need and calcium and vitamin D for vegetarian teens.