Plot Summary

Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy

Bil Wright
Guide cover placeholder

Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2011

Book Brief

Bil Wright

Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2011
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

2011

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

820L

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Super Short Summary

Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy by Bil Wright follows sixteen-year-old Carlos Duarte, a high school student with a passion for makeup artistry, as he navigates personal and professional challenges, including homophobia and strained family dynamics, while pursuing his dream job at Macy's Future Face makeup counter. The story addresses homophobia, harassment, and domestic violence.

Humorous

Emotional

Inspirational

Playful

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

3.7

1,046 ratings

49%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

20%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Bil Wright's Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy tells a compelling story with vibrant characters, particularly its bold protagonist. While praised for its engaging and authentic depiction of teenage ambition and identity, some critics find the plot predictable. The novel excels in capturing the struggles and triumphs of acceptance and self-expression, resonating well with young adult readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy?

Someone who appreciates Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy by Bil Wright would enjoy coming-of-age LGBTQ+ narratives featuring diverse protagonists. Similar to readers of The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky and Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, they cherish themes of self-discovery and acceptance.

3.7

1,046 ratings

49%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

20%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

2011

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

820L

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