Plot Summary

One Fat Summer

Robert Lipsyte
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One Fat Summer

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1977

Book Brief

Robert Lipsyte

One Fat Summer

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1977
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Catskill Mountains • 1950s

Publication Year

1977

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

670L

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Super Short Summary

One Fat Summer by Robert Lipsyte, the first book in the Summer trilogy, follows fourteen-year-old Bobby Marks as he struggles with insecurities about his body and bullying during a summer spent mowing lawns instead of going to camp, learning to stand up for himself, work hard, and redefine his self-worth. The book features topics such as bullying, parental conflict, and body image struggles.

Challenging

Inspirational

Adventurous

Contemplative

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.1

1,421 ratings

63%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

One Fat Summer by Robert Lipsyte is praised for its authentic coming-of-age narrative and relatable protagonist. Readers appreciate the honest exploration of self-esteem and personal growth. However, some critics find the pacing slow and the secondary characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's a compelling read for those interested in adolescent struggles and resilience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read One Fat Summer?

Readers who enjoy One Fat Summer by Robert Lipsyte are typically teens or young adults interested in coming-of-age stories that explore themes of self-discovery and personal growth. Fans of Judy Blume's Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret or S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders would appreciate this insightful, character-driven narrative.

4.1

1,421 ratings

63%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Catskill Mountains • 1950s

Publication Year

1977

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

670L

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