Plot summary, “When Zachary Beaver Came To Town” by Kimberly Willis Holt in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"When Zachary Beaver Came to Town" is a young adult novel written by Kimberly Willis Holt. The book was first published in 1999 and went on to win the U.S. National Book Award for Young People's Literature in 1999.
The story is set in the small town of Antler, Texas, during the summer of 1971. The protagonist is 13-year-old Toby Wilson, who narrates the tale. Toby's life takes an unexpected turn when a traveling carnival comes to town, and with it arrives Zachary Beaver, a morbidly obese teenage boy who is billed as the "fattest boy in the world."
As Zachary's story unfolds, the town becomes fascinated with him, and he becomes somewhat of an attraction. However, he faces a lot of cruelty and discrimination due to his weight. Toby, who himself struggles with feelings of inadequacy and yearns for his absent mother's love and attention, forms an unlikely friendship with Zachary.
Through their friendship, Toby begins to see the world through a different lens, gaining insight into the challenges and prejudices faced by those who don't fit societal norms. As the summer progresses, Toby, Zachary, and their friend Cal get entangled in a series of adventures and life-changing events that ultimately teach them valuable lessons about empathy, acceptance, and the complexities of human relationships.
The novel explores themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and the importance of looking beyond superficial appearances to understand the true worth of a person. It delves into the emotional growth and self-discovery that the characters experience as they confront their own biases and preconceptions.
"When Zachary Beaver Came to Town" has been well-received for its authentic portrayal of small-town life, its poignant characters, and its sensitive treatment of weight-related issues. It is a heartwarming and thought-provoking coming-of-age story that resonates with readers of all ages.