Navigating the world as a plus-size adult can be challenging, but in many ways, kids with bigger bodies have it even harder. They rarely see relatable role models who look like them, which can affect how they see themselves and their potential. Never Say Never host Jeff Jenkins is trying to change that with his new children’s book, Why Not Me?!: Chubby Diaries Series.
Introducing a plus-size hero
The book follows a young, plus-size protagonist named Jeff and his pet dragon as they explore the world with the help of a magical bed. Filled with adventure, heart, and humor, Why Not Me?! is on a mission to inspire children of all sizes to embrace new experiences. Jeff brings the same uplifting spirit from his travel blog and the Nat Geo show to the pages of this book, showing kids that the world is theirs to explore, no matter what their size.
The book teaches important lessons about kindness, confidence, and inclusivity. It’s not just another children’s story; it reminds us that everyone deserves to see themselves reflected in the books they read.
Why a plus-size protagonist matters
When I was a kid there weren’t any books featuring plus-size main characters in a positive light. Can you imagine how different things might have been if popular culture had shown us fat characters who were more than the villain or the butt of the joke? Seeing yourself positively represented in film, TV, and books can change everything.
By featuring a plus-size protagonist, Jeff is sending a clear message to kids of all shapes and sizes: You are worthy, you deserve to be the hero of your own story, and you can do anything. The experiences in Why Not Me?! could be life-changing for a new generation of readers who finally get to see a character who looks like them.
About Jeff Jenkins
Jeff Jenkins started Chubby Diaries in 2018 to show plus-size people how to travel the world without limits. That spirit of adventure and inclusivity led him to host the National Geographic series Never Say Never, where he travels to locations around the world, facing challenges and pushing himself to the limit. Whether hiking over glaciers in Iceland or sharing travel tips on his website, Jeff is all about living life to the fullest. Over the years, we’ve seen him evolve from travel blogger to TV host and now children’s book author – all while staying true to his mission: making sure plus-size people know there’s a place for them in every corner of the world.
You can pick up your copy of Jeff Jenkins’ Why Not Me?!: Chubby Diaries Series right now on Amazon and follow him on Instagram at @chubbydiaries.
