Butter

A 423-pound high school student known as "Butter" makes a shocking announcement online: he will eat himself to death on New Year's Eve, and he invites his classmates to watch via livestream. The declaration transforms him from social outcast to sudden celebrity at school. As his final meal approaches, Butter finds himself with an active social life for the first time. He begins talking to the girl he has admired from afar, makes new friends, and experiences what it's like to be included rather than ignored. The deadline of New Year's Eve looms closer as Butter must decide whether to follow through with his plan or face the consequences of backing out. His choice becomes more complex as his newfound relationships and social status hang in the balance. The novel examines isolation, bullying, and the impact of social media on teen life. Through Butter's perspective, it raises questions about authenticity, acceptance, and the prices we pay to belong.

Readers connect with the authentic portrayal of bullying, obesity, and teen isolation. The protagonist's struggles feel genuine rather than preachy, with many reviewers noting the book handles heavy topics without becoming depressing. Readers appreciate: - Realistic high school dynamics and dialogue - Complex supporting characters who defy stereotypes - Dark humor balanced with serious themes - The gradual character development Common criticisms: - Slow pacing in the middle sections - Some plot points feel contrived - A few readers found the ending unsatisfying Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (8,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (120+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.3/5 (30+ ratings) One frequent comment from reviews: "This book made me examine my own biases about weight and bullying." Multiple readers noted discomfort with certain scenes but praised how the discomfort served the story's themes.

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🔸 Author Erin Jade Lange was inspired to write Butter after working as a journalist and covering stories about teenage obesity and bullying. 🔸 The book tackles serious topics like eating disorders and suicide while maintaining moments of unexpected humor, leading to its nomination for several state book awards. 🔸 Butter's plan to eat himself to death by live-streaming his "last meal" explores the dark side of social media fame, predating many real-world discussions about harmful online challenges. 🔸 The main character's nickname "Butter" comes from an incident where he was bullied at band camp - a detail that becomes increasingly significant as the story unfolds. 🔸 The author spent time with teen musicians to accurately portray Butter's saxophone playing, which serves as both his escape and connection to Anna throughout the novel.