Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy by Bil Wright

Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy by Bil Wright
Carlos has been a make up artist in training since he was 12. Now 16 Carlos gets his dream job, working at Feature Face cosmetic counter at Macy's. He believes working at Feature Face is the first step to being discovered. Carlos boss doesn't like him and the new job cost him a very close friend.

This story is about a young man that knows what he wants and is going after it. Carlo's personality is as loud as the cover is bright. Behind his big personality, Carlos loves his mother and older sister, Rosalia. He isn't hassled at school but Rosalia boyfriend and friends always have snide comments. Carlos does his best to ignore them, putting all his energy into becoming famous. When Carlos big break comes saying yes means risking everything.

After three chapters I was very close to putting this one down. I didn't like the way Carlos interacted with his friend Angie or felt the need to comment on what she was eating. When this stopped, I was able to focus on Carlos again and he grew on me. I am glad I kept reading, I discovered there was more to Carlos then his fabulous style. There were a few story lines going on at once, from the mother losing her job, to Rosalia abusive relationship, and Carlos crush. They all blended together making for a very well rounded story.

An excerpt