Read, Run, Ramble

Title: Dumplin’
Author: Julie Murphy
Genre: YA Fiction
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Publication Date: September 15, 2015
Format: egalley via Edelweiss

Synopsis

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

My Review (originally posted at Read, Run, Ramble):

Thank you, Balzer + Bray via Edelweiss for providing me with a copy of this book!

I quite enjoyed Dumplin’! The protagonist is funny, smart, and big (and still happy with herself). She’s just what YA lit needs right now!

The author did a great job with body image issues in this novel, covering not only those who suffer due to being fat/big, but also those who have imperfect teeth, those who are too thin, and even those with physical disability. These characters show their weaknesses and insecurities, but also their courage and strength – just in being themselves, there’s no grand transformations that make all their problems go away.

Willowdean, the protagonist, is one of the most fun and positive main characters I’ve read in a long time. She faces tough times with her mother, aunt, best friend, a cute boy or two, and even herself. She navigates all the chaos with finesse, humor, and above all self-confidence (though not as much as she thinks she has – there’s a big learning curve for Willowdean in this story).

And then there’s Dolly Parton who provides a fabulous backdrop for Willowdean’s life and several of the important relationships and connections in her life.

Murphy has given readers an excellent cast of role model characters who are inspiring and important. Pick it up – you won’t be sorry!

I was provided with an ARC of this book by the publisher or author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am not compensated for any of my reviews.