If you feel ugly and uncomfortable, you project that and people are more likely to perceive you that way. One of the things she learns, that I also learned and continue to learn even at 26, is that a lot of beauty lies in confidence. Fat Cat is Cat’s emotional journey to self-awareness and self-acceptance. She has a lot of trouble looking past her own viewpoint, which is completely accurate. She’s also inquisitive and set in her ways.

Brande definitely does not come across as fat-shaming Cat, which I think is the most important thing.Ĭat’s got a really great voice. She also really considers the behavior of people towards her, and looks askance at those that only liked her after she lost the weight. I love that at the end it’s stressed that Cat lost the weight for herself and not so that people will think of her differently. Cat doesn’t lose the weight through a crash diet or anything and she does so for herself with lifestyle changes. However, I do think it happens in a really great way. Brande tackles some sensitive issues, like weight and diet, thoughtfully and with an eye towards making healthy choices, not to conforming to society.įat Cat is one of those books where the fat heroine does lose a lot of the weight by the end, so if that’s not what you want be warned. It’s one of those books very driven by narrative voice, and I happen to love Cat’s voice. Somehow Fat Cat had been almost entirely off of my radar, which is a shame because this book is pretty damn awesome.

Fat cat by robin brande