Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy

Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy introduces Carlos Duarte, a vibrant, confident 16-year-old gay Latino teen with a passion for makeup artistry. The story follows Carlos as he secures a coveted job at a Macy's cosmetics counter, believing it's his first step towards fame. However, he quickly learns the competitive nature of the industry, dealing with a hostile boss and the complexities of his personal life, including his sister's abusive relationship and a budding crush. This award-winning novel explores themes of identity, resilience, family, and the pursuit of dreams, offering a rich narrative for young adults aged 12-18.

Sixteen-year-old Carlos Duarte is on the verge of realizing his dream of becoming a famous make-up artist, but first he must face his jealous boss at a Macy's cosmetics counter, his sister's abusive boyfriend, and his crush on a punk-rocker classmate.