Fat Cat

October 12, 2009
Can an American teen survive 207 days without junk food and modern conveniences? Budding scientist Catherine (Cat) Locke finds out the answer after embarking on her most ambitious experiment yet: living the lifestyle of a primitive Homo erectus
. Cat is determined to win a prize at the science fair and outshine her rival and former friend, Matt, “Mr. I've-Won-More Science-Fairs-Than-Any-of-You,” but that's not her only motivation: she hopes that by following the diet of her ancestors, she'll shed some unwanted pounds. Going without processed food, technology and motorized transportation isn't easy (“A big fat Snickers and a slice of pizza would have made everything so much better”), but Cat learns much about herself and other members of the human species as she observes changes in her body and attitude, while noting how others react to her metamorphosis (namely, she's suddenly juggling the attention of several boys). Well-versed in adolescent emotions and behaviors, Brande (Evolution, Me, and Other Freaks of Nature
) offers a fresh, funny portrait of a strong-minded young woman hurdling obstacles and fighting cravings to reach her goal. Ages 12–up.

January 1, 2010
Gr 8 Up-Rotund brainiac Catherine "Cat" Locke, a junior, becomes her own science-fair project "guinea pig," trying to live a prehistoric lifestyle for seven months. Out for revenge on former best friend/crush and detested rival Matt McKinney, she gives up cars, phones, TV, computers, and processed foods in her determination to win this year's competition. Cat's slimmed-down body attracts several boys' attention, and she expands her project to observe the effects on herself and others, coached in the social graces by her beautiful, brilliant girlfriend Amanda. Delightful character depth and humorous plot twists make this a satisfying read as Cat confronts the real issues separating her from Matt. Brande precisely captures the different psyches of teenage guys and girls, weaving fitness, friendship, and forgiveness around the scientific method."Joyce Adams Burner, National Archives at Kansas City, MO"

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