Initially repelled by an overweight new student who has serious home problems, the fifth grade class finally learns to accept her.

Will is the only round kid in a school full of string beans. So he hides in baggy jeans and oversized hoodies, in the back row during class, and anywhere but the cafeteria during lunch. But shame isn't the only feeling that dominates Will's life. He's also got a crush on a girl named Jules who knows he doesn't have a chance with, string beans only date string beans, but he can't help wondering what if? Will's best shot at attracting Jules's attention...

"Malena hates going to swim class because the other kids make fun of her weight. Once the instructor tells her to think positively about herself, her whole outlook changes"--Amazon.