The story itself is fine, even tender and sweet, but the ongoing subtle and not so subtle fatphobia was hard to get through. I think that the author would probably say that she was actively trying to be inclusive by depicting an overweight athlete/hiker, but the negative descriptors of overweight bodies and the number of characters whose lives magically get better when they lose some weight (Joey, Xander, Xander's parents, etc) speak far louder.

Argh the struggles Joey battles make JOEY THE GOOD such an authentic, riveting, and heartfelt read! Erin Fry takes Joey and the reader on an exciting and tumultuous journey, laying out every step in such a compelling path I couldn’t help but root for Joey through his triumphs and even his missteps. I loved the descriptions of each hike he takes with his cousin and each hurdle he overcomes with himself. Readers will empathize with Joey as he learns persistence at climbing mountains, forgiving himself, and developing relationships with new friends as well as long-loved family members. JOEY THE GOOD will draw in readers with its heartwarming story and heart-racing twists!

When Joey’s cousin, Leo, comes to stay with Joey’s family for the summer, Leo tells him I want to take you hiking and eventually I want us to climb the highest mountain in the lower 48 states, Mt. Whitney. Joey would rather stay home but reluctantly starts small hikes with Leo because he thinks it’s what Nonno would have wanted. One day while hiking Joey finds out Leo has MS and wonders how can we hike Mt. Whitney later this summer, but Joey agrees to hoping he won’t regret it and worried he won’t be able to do it. As they take small hikes more and more, the two boys are getting along better, and Joey finds hiking isn’t so bad. One day while on a hike, something happens to Leo. Will they be able to eventually hike Mt, Whitney?
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.