Fat Kid Rules The World by K. L. Going

Seventeen-year-old Troy, depressed, suicidal, and weighing nearly three hundred pounds, gets a new perspective on life when Curt, a semi-homeless teen who is a genius on guitar, asks Troy to be the drummer in a rock band.

Liz says:

“This is one of my favorite books but it’s not for everyone. While it is ultimately a story of self-acceptance and family, it is also filled with gritty reality and harsh language. One of my favorite parts of this book is that Troy’s dad is so loving and real. More often than not, parents are portrayed unfavorably. This is an example where the dad comes through for his son and even for his troubled friend. Kids who love music will appreciate that aspect of the book and will understand that Curt is loosely based on Kurt Cobain. This is a very powerful story!”