Dumplin'

Name: Dumplin'
ISBN: 9780062327192

by Julie Murphy

Willowdean "Dumplin'" Dickson, a confident plus-size teen, finds her self-esteem shaken by a new crush. To prove her worth, she enters a beauty pageant, sparking a journey of self-discovery and friend

About This Book

Julie Murphy's "Dumplin'" introduces Willowdean Dickson, a plus-size teenager who has always been comfortable in her skin. Her world shifts when she develops feelings for a handsome boy, revealing unexpected insecurities. To reclaim her confidence and challenge societal norms, Will decides to enter the local Miss Teen Blue Bonnet Pageant. This heartwarming young adult novel explores themes of body positivity, self-acceptance, friendship, and first love, offering a relatable and empowering story for teens navigating identity and societal pressures.

Concepts

Self-Confidence & Identity Love & Family Friendship & Loyalty Fear & Bravery Loneliness & Belonging Resilience & Perseverance Justice & Fairness Curiosity & Wonder Being Different Making Friends Growing Up Peer Pressure Sibling Rivalry Friendship & Social Family & Siblings

Heads up, parents

body_image

Romantic Content

Discussion Prompts

How does Willowdean's view of herself change throughout the story, and what causes these changes?

What does 'beauty' mean to different characters in the book? How do their definitions compare to yours?

How does Willowdean's relationship with her mother impact her self-esteem?

What challenges does Willowdean face in her friendship with Ellen, and how do they resolve them?

If you were Willowdean, would you have entered the pageant? Why or why not?

External Reviews