Review of Sunny Side Up by Katie Sturino – A Plus-Sized Heroine You’ll Root For

Sunny Side Up is a feel-good, body-positive rom-com that follows a newly divorced woman’s journey toward self-acceptance, love, and a fresh start in both business and life.

Acknowledgments:

Thank you to Macmillan Audio and Netgalley for the ARC of this audiobook. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

Summary:

In her heartwarming and hilarious debut, body-acceptance advocate and MEGABABE founder Katie Sturino introduces Sunny Greene, a 35-year-old recently divorced woman navigating body image, self-love, and the chaos of dating. With her brother’s wedding approaching and swimsuit shopping proving demoralizing, Sunny decides it’s time to embrace herself fully. Backed by her thriving PR business, a stylish Chelsea apartment, loyal friends, and her dogs, she sets out to reclaim her confidence and happiness. As she juggles a budding romance with a charming mailman, a promising business opportunity with a suave tycoon, and an ex who wants a second chance, Sunny’s journey is one of self-discovery, empowerment, and learning to love herself just as she is.

My Thoughts:

What a debut! Sunny Side Up is a refreshing, feel-good read that blends humour, heart, and a powerful message of self-acceptance. Katie Sturino introduces us to Sunny Greene, a thirty-five-year-old PR powerhouse who’s newly divorced, up forty pounds, and trying to find a bathing suit at Bergdorf’s that doesn’t make her cry. It’s a low moment—but also the start of something wonderful.

Sunny’s journey begins as she tries to pull herself out of the emotional muck of her divorce while launching a size-inclusive swimwear brand inspired by her own struggles. Her PR firm is thriving, she has two lovable dogs and a strong group of supportive friends—but she’s determined to find a date for her brother’s wedding, and maybe even a fresh start in love. Enter Dennis, the charming mailman with the world’s most loveable Queen’s accent, and Ted, the smooth business mogul who could help bring her brand to life. Add in an ex-husband who won’t stay gone, and things get delightfully messy.

What I really loved is how Sturino addresses the lack of size inclusivity in fashion (and life in general) without making it feel preachy. She’s honest and funny, and her portrayal of Sunny feels real and empowering. There’s so much heart in this story—Sunny’s refusal to let society define her worth is truly inspiring. The comparisons to Carrie Bradshaw are well-earned; Sunny’s voice is bold, modern, and deeply relatable.

The Narration:

I listened to the audiobook version narrated by Yael Rizowy and it’s one I’d absolutely recommend. Her performance brings Sunny’s warmth and confidence to life. I especially appreciated her skill in voicing the male characters—Dennis’ Queen’s accent in particular was so charming and perfectly delivered.

Final Thoughts:

Sunny Side Up is more than a rom-com—it’s a body-positive, confidence-boosting, laugh-out-loud story about finding yourself, loving yourself, and making space for joy. I’m already looking forward to whatever Katie Sturino writes next.

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