Book Review: Fat Cat by Robin Brande

Fat Cat by Robin Brande
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cat just wants one thing, to beat Matt McKinney at the science fair to get even for his betrayal four years ago. When the picture she receives as her inspiration for her science project features three naked hominids, man's early ancestor, she is no longer sure what to do for her project. When inspiration or desperation strikes, Cat decides on a project that may change her life forever. For 207 days "Fat Cat" will eat an all natural diet, ignore technology, and start a chain of events that will change her both physically and mentally. Watch out Matt McKinney!

I chose to read this book because it made Indiana's 2011-2012 Eliot Rosewater list. That wasn't the only reason though. I downloaded it as a whim from our Indiana Digital Media (Overdrive) site as a test on my iPod Touch. For whatever reason I originally started this book, it seems like I was meant to read it. From the first chapters displayed on my tiny iPod screen, to the later chapters when I gave up and decided to read it from my nook, and later the book, I can honestly say this book had me hooked. (YIKES! I am rhyming!!!) I don't read a lot of realistic fiction, but I am really glad that fate, or Overdrive, or Eliot Rosewater brought this book to me because I loved it.

The characters in this novel were great! I loved Cat's character. She is a strong young woman who is a good student and determined to do her best. She chooses a project and follows it with all of her heart, and discovers so much about herself along the way. Her best friend Amanda is terrific. If only everyone could have a best friend like her! Amanda's boyfriend Jordan, gives us a nice guy who loves his girlfriend and is willing to help out when necessary.

I loved the idea of the science experiment motivating Cat to change her lifestyle, and I love watching her confidence grow as she began to drop the pounds and discover that there is more to life than holding a grudge. The pacing of this story is superb. You follow Cat through 207 days of her experiment, and discover surprises around every turn.

Overall, this book was a welcome relief from so much of the urban fantasy, paranormal, and science fiction I have been reading lately. It was a light entertaining read and a surprisingly quick one. My only regret is that there wasn't more--I loved the characters so much I wanted the story to keep on going. It was fantastic!

Cautions for sensitive readers: Some kissing and some questions about sex are discussed.

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