And so, I embark on my grand experiment. Every month of this school year I will follow Betty Cornell's advice on the topics in her book: dieting, hair, makeup, posture, and attitude, among others - no matter how embarrassing or difficult. I definitely have my work cut out for me. That is if I'm not already beyond help. I am 5'2" with light brown skin that breaks out in acne on a regular basis. I am gawky, slouchy, and just a little bit lumpy. I have non-existent hips and a chest almost as flat as the cover of Betty Cornell's book. I wear glasses and braces. I do all my clothes shopping at Walmart and second-hand stores. I spend more time on algebra than I do on my hair. Maybe things will change. Can popularity advice from more than half a century ago still be relevant? I'll find out. Crazier things have happened, right? Men have walked on the moon and society has found a way to grow square watermelons. Betty Cornell has become my new soul mate, and I am married to her every word. For better or worse. Excerpted from Popular: A Memoir by Maya Van Wagenen All rights reserved by the original copyright owners. Excerpts are provided for display purposes only and may not be reproduced, reprinted or distributed without the written permission of the publisher.