45 Pounds (More or Less)

“You’ll love this book so much that you’ll wish you had a friend like Ann.”—Cynthia Leitich Smith, New York Times bestselling author

“Deliciously relatable, with a lot of laughter on the side.”—Rita Williams-Garcia, New York Times bestselling author

“With both humor and depth, the story of Ann’s resilience, determination, and strength will inspire readers on their own journey toward a sparkly new life.”—Susane Colasanti, author of Keep Holding On

“A powerful and poignant novel about hope and love in the midst of common and controversial issues about weight gain, weight loss, and the ability to persevere despite our flaws.”—VOYA, starred review

“Telling the story in Ann’s wry, realistic voice, this debut author effectively captures society’s preoccupation with size and the resulting alienation of an overweight teen. . . . Barson lightens the tone with almost cinematic humor, ensuring that even the most painful scenes have a slapstick edge. The ticking clock behind the wedding deadline gives the story real momentum, and while the ending is all nuptial jubilation, it is also a realistic summer’s end for Ann.”—School Library Journal

“Teens . . . will find a funny, smart companion in Barson’s charming heroine. . . . All readers will cheer for this winning character.”—Shelf Awareness