Off the Shelf 0607-11

Fat Kid Rules the World
By Kelly Going
© 2004

(Mature Content and Realistic Language)

Overweight and depressed, Troy is ready to give up! He is friendless and misunderstood by his father and brother with whom he lives. At 300 pounds, thus his nickname, the “fat kid,” he stands at the subway platform with suicidal thoughts of jumping in front of the train. The unlikely encounter with Curt, a very underweight and homeless teen with problems of his own, prevents the jump. It also leads him through some interesting introspections as he takes on the challenge to be the drummer in a punk rock band.

Disturbing content in regards to social and personal issues will not appeal to all readers, but the underlying themes are more universal than not. Curt’s character (a counterpart of Kurt Cobain in some ways) is popularized for mostly unhealthy reasons, but his soul is both personable and humanitarian. Troy’s journey leads him to a better understanding of others and a higher comfort level with himself. The punk rock musical environment may be a motivator for some teen readers.

**2006 Florida Teen Read

My recommendation: 3 ½ out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist