Description

The acclaimed book behind the new major motion picture Measure of a Man, starring Donald Sutherland, Judy Greer, Luke Wilson, and Blake Cooper.

A New York Times Outstanding Book and ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults

For Bobby Marks, summer does not equal fun. While most people are happy to take off their heavy jackets and long pants, Bobby can't even button his jeans or reach over his belly to touch his toes. Spending the summer at Rumson Lake is sheer torture.

This particular summer promises to be worse than usual. His parents can't stop fighting. His best friend, Joanie, goes home to New York City and won't tell him why. Dr. Kahn, a rich, stingy estate owner who hires him to manage an enormous lawn, is working him to death. And to top it off, a local bully won't stop torturing him.

Bobby is about to find out just how terrifying and exhilarating one fat summer can be.

A Classic Coming of Age Story: Fourteen-year-old Bobby Marks just wants to hide. But this summer, a demanding new job and a relentless bully will force him to face his biggest fears. Overcoming Bullying: When a local tough named Willie Rumson makes his life a nightmare, Bobby must find a strength he never knew he had. A Humorous and Heartfelt Voice: Filled with witty observations and relatable struggles, this award-winning novel captures the agony and ecstasy of being a teenager. Nostalgic 1950s Setting: Journey back to a time of lakeside carnivals, hard-earned lessons, and the universal challenge of finding your place in the world.