The Fat Boy Chronicles, Michael Buchanan’s YA novel co-authored with Diane Lang, won the National Parenting Publication’s Gold Award, Mom’s Choice Award of Excellence and the New York Champion of Character Award. Schools around the nation use the novel in their anti-bullying and childhood obesity efforts.  

Buchanan adapted the book into the feature-film that won multiple awards for its impacting, yet hopeful depiction of an obese and bullied 9th grader’s world. Since its release in 2012, millions of fans around the world have seen the film. Teachers and parents in every state support both the book and movie.  

In his journey with the story, the author has spoken to and inspired thousands of students to be a hero for those who need it most. Buchanan has been a guest speaker at local, state and national conferences where he discusses inspiring solutions to bullying along with the issue’s connection to academics and school climate. His screenwriting workshops have been a popular addition to book festivals. The sequel to The Fat Boy Chronicles is underway while their next book, Treasure of the Four Lions, is completed. Buchanan is lead writer for the documentaries Spiral Bound and Nature Matters, feature-length films about the importance of the arts and nature, respectively.