HANNAH RENEE

Plus Sized Character Book Recommendations

Summer ( buttermybooks ) and I ( books-cupcakes ) recently discussed how there is a lack of plus size character representation in not only young adult literature but even in adult fiction. When we do read about characters like us they are either described as one of two things a.) gross and self-loathing with no hopes of ever finding love or b.) the fat funny friend who will never amount to anything more than that. It’s really discouraging to read books like this over and over again.  Even minor plus size characters get hated on; either they’re being knocked down by bullies and mean girls or they are described as villains. We want to read a book that recognizes us. We’re tired of reading books where girls (and guys) hate themselves because of their weight. We are tired of reading books where the only time the main character can be happy is when they lose weight. Happiness doesn’t automatically happen because you lose, 10, 20, 50, or 150 pounds. We want realistic and body positivity books about plus size characters because we are tired of reading books that tell us we should hate ourselves and change to fit societies perspective of what is “normal”. 

So until we do get more representation Summer and I have compiled a list of books that feature plus sized main characters. Now not all these books fall into the same genre or category. Some of them are really positive and some aren’t – some deal with heavy issues. Some are about losing weight, some are about gaining confidence and becoming happy regardless of size. Some books are fantasy and some books are romance. We tried to find as many books as we could. 

We really hope that you enjoy these recommendations and that you can find a book that you relate to. Hopefully this list will help you find your next favorite book!  Happy reading!!