Fat Cat

Fat Cat
by Robin Brande

2011 Lone Star Reading List

Teens

Cat is a bright high school senior who struggles with weight issues.  Although Cat would like to lose weight, she is more focused on winning this year's science fair and beating Matt McKinney.  When Cat receives the photograph that she must use to develop a science fair topic, she comes up with a brilliant plan.  Her plan involves using her body as a test subject.  Cat plans to eat and live a lifestyle like the early hominids as much as possible.  She stops eating processed foods, gives up cosmetics and technology, and walks whenever possible.  Cat learns that she is treated differently when she begins to lose weight, but most importantly, she learns about herself and true friendship.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.  The topic was interesting and approached in such a unique fashion.  Robin Brande did a marvelous job of developing each character in Fat Cat.  Cat was such a well rounded and likeable person.  I also appreciated the friendship that existed between Cat and her best friend, Amanda.  The theme of true friendship and looking within a person to find their true worth was apparent, without being preachy.