|
 |
Fat Boy Swim Catherine Forde Delacorte Press © 2005 |
Fat Boy Swim is a book about an obese young man named Jim Kelly. Jim is a fourteen year old who is made fun of because of his physical appearance. Nobody really wants to know what “ Fat Boy Fat” is like under the skin. He is a misfit who dreams of becoming a swimmer, and holds the gift of being a phenomenal chef. Throughout the course of the story, a sports coach named GI Joe negotiates with Jim to help reach his dream, but Jim will have to cook for an event. The coach persuades Jim to participate in the swimathon. The strenuous swim workouts results in Jim losing weight, which leads to an interest in a girl named Ellie. When Jim is told that his father was a swimmer, knowledge of his family is turned upside down. Dealing with the news of his family secrets, Jim still swims in the swimathon and beats his bully, Victor Swift. This funny and surreal book is all in all great!
This book suits kids from 12- 15 years of age. The book’s funny, and use of present day media mentions appeals to young adults. Since the main character is criticized because of his appearance and deals with home issues, teens can relate to the story. This book is not suitable for younger children at an elementary level due to inappropriate language and interest in significant others. The book is funny and makes the reader want the “ Fat Boy” to surmount his obstacles. Fat Boy Swim is a very good book.
~ Kiley Thompson, grade 8, Boardman Center Middle School