Fat Boy vs. the Cheerleaders

Addicted to Code Red Mountain Dew, Gabe Johnson is incensed when he learns that the price of soda at his high school's vending machine has increased dramatically, and that proceeds that were supporting the band are now funding the cheerleading squad. Sixteen and overweight, Gabe is fed up with being a victim. With the help of his grandfather, a health and fitness nut who moved in to help Gabe's father get back on his feet, Gabe struggles through eating well and working out, mourning his favorite foods with touching humor and honesty: "I'll tell you this%E2%80%94donuts didn't just disappear. They were on my mind. Like in my mind. So were sandwiches." While plotting to save the band and its down-and-out conductor, Gabe strengthens his "weak leadership bone" and makes new friends who don't call him "Chunk." Framed as a transcript of events recounted by Gabe to his lawyer, Herbach's (Stupid Fast) novel realistically addresses the difficulty of making major life changes and the empowerment of not feeling the need to blend in. Ages 12%E2%80%93up. Agent: Jim McCarthy, Dystel & Goderich Literary Management. (May)