"Fat Kid Rules the World" is a young adult novel written by K.L. Going. It was first published in 2003. The story follows a high school student named Troy Billings who is obese and struggling with depression. One day, he is saved from jumping in front of a subway train by a homeless teenager named Curt MacCrae. Curt, a charismatic and reckless punk musician, convinces Troy to become the drummer for his band. As Troy becomes more involved in Curt's world, he begins to find purpose and confidence in himself. The novel deals with themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and overcoming adversity. It received critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of teenage struggles and its realistic characters. In 2012, a film adaptation of the novel was released, directed by Matthew Lillard.