Staying+Fat+for+Sarah+Byrnes

//Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes// explores the friendship of two teenagers, Eric Calhoun and Sarah Byrnes. In middle school, they were social outcasts: Eric because of his weight, and Sarah because of burn scars that she has had since early childhood. In high school, Eric finds popularity as he sheds some weight and becomes a star on the swim team. His relationship with Sarah, though deeply rooted in their shared experiences, begins to change. She remains an outcast while he becomes accepted by is peers.

The book covers a number of serious and controversial topics including peer acceptance, bullying, abuse, and abortion. It opens up opportunities for dialogue about popularity, religious beliefs, and making tough decisions.

Told from Eric's point of view, much of the book gives insight into his past experiences with bullies. It explores the pain he and Sarah felt about being shunned by their peers. Also, it shows how they approached these issues and resolved them. The choices that they make throughout the text should provide entry points for productive discussion.