It's bad enough being the new kid, but as a freshman, Jimmy finds school less enjoyable than many of his classmates. Standing 5'5" and weighing 187 pounds, he's subjected to a daily barrage of taunts and torments. His only sources of comfort are his family, his youth group, and his favorite foods. When his English teacher assigns a journal as a writing project, Jimmy chronicles not only his struggles but also his aspirations - to lose weight and win the girl of his dreams. Inspired by a true story and told in first-person journal entries, The Fat Boy Chronicles brings to life the pain and isolation felt by many overweight teenagers as they try to find their way in a world obsessed with outward beauty.

The authors achieve a more believable tone than the usual so-called teen diaries published as novels. The main character's plight is all too believable, and will certainly resonate with anyone who has been made fun of. ( )

THE FAT BOY CHRONICLES is inspired by a true story. 14-year-old Jimmy has to write a diary about his life for English class. He reluctantly does this, even though he thinks it is lame, but soon opens up about his struggles: being at a new school, and constantly and cruelly being teased for being overweight. Jimmy and his best friend, Paul, drift apart when Paul becomes overwhelmed by family problems... ( )

Reviewed by YA Librarian Elizabeth for TeensReadToo.com

THE FAT BOY CHRONICLES is inspired by a true story.

14-year-old Jimmy has to write a diary about his life for English class. He reluctantly does this, even though he thinks it is lame, but soon opens up about his struggles: being at a new school, and constantly and cruelly being teased for being overweight.

Jimmy and his best friend, Paul, drift apart when Paul becomes overwhelmed by family problems and obsessed with proving his neighbor is the man who murdered a girl in their town. Jimmy's popular sister can eat anything she wants and stay thin. He has a crush on Whitney, who is nice to him but won't acknowledge she knows him in front of others.

Frustrated by his life, Jimmy goes on a diet and exercises and starts to lose weight - and finds his new look changes his old outlook on life. ( )