Fat Boy vs. the Cheerleaders

Gr 9 Up—This is the account of 16-year-old Gabe Johnson, aka "Chunk," as told to his lawyer. It all started when Gabe decided to investigate the sudden price increase of his favorite soda from the vending machine. Further digging reveals that the vending machine profits, originally used to subsidize the school band, were being funneled to the cheerleaders, leaving the entire band program in financial crisis. Outraged, Gabe convinces his fellow musical geeks to take on the jocks, cheerleaders, and the administration. The conflict eventually escalates, resulting in Gabe's arrest. Everything is wrapped up neatly in the end, with fair punishments meted out, including to the popular students and the school board. On the surface, this novel is your run-of-the-mill "rise of the geeks" story, complete with self-deprecating humor, over-the-top drama, and useless adults. However, the narrative evolves into a coming-of-age tale in which a teen from a broken home, who uses food as a coping mechanism, begins to take control of his life. As Gabe becomes further invested in his cause, harnessing his leadership skills and beginning a brutal exercise regimen with his grandfather—a hilariously blunt former body builder—his life slowly starts to click into place. The protagonist is funny, honest, and an utterly likable narrator; his character growth and the decisions he makes are believable and his refusal to be a victim is refreshing. Give to anyone who has felt like an outsider or just wants a fun, fast-paced book with depth.—Marissa Lieberman, East Orange Public Library, NJ