Well, WOW, Dumplin’ was a breath of fresh air. Seriously, peoples, this is a brilliant book. BRILLIANT. I was freakishly worried before I started because the author’s first book, Side Effects May Vary and I did NOT have a good relationship. (To date, it’s still a book I totally don’t understand and kind of growl at.) But this is an excellent example of why one must read several books by the same author because Dumplin‘ was so incredible.
\\ NOTE: I have to share quotes with you peoples because they’re so brilliant, but this is an ARC and these quotes may NOT be the final product. So don’t re-quote me, okay? //
I squinted at a few things (mainly the romance), but mostly the characters were realistic, the plot was down to earth and it was deliciously feminist. OH. And it’s about a beauty pageant, so do you know what comes next?
DO YOU?!
OH HELLO TO MISS CONGENIALITY. Probably the best movie in the history of ever. Just so we’re clear on that. Gifs are coming! BUT I DIGRESS! LET’S MOVE FORWARD, SHALL WE?
The characters are downright fabulous. We’re talking glitter and own it fabulousness. They’re not perfect, gosh, they’re riddled with flaws, but everyone is interesting and dimensional. Sometimes Willowdean rubbed me the wrong way. But I can’t deny how realistic she is. She has insecurities and anxieties and fantasies and is feministic. And she has ATTITUDE. She introduces herself as “Cashier, Dolly Parton enthusiast, and resident fat girl.”
Willowdean is complex. She’s mostly glitter and fabulousness — but that doesn’t stop the insecurities appearing. She’s concerned about her body image: but she wants to be happy with it. She doesn’t believe in changing to fit society’s standards. If you’re going to change, do it for YOU not someone else. This is mildly glorious advice. Willowdean is the kind of protagonist I want to read about.
“You’re missing out on so much.” She takes a step toward me. “Boys and dating. That kind of stuff.”
I scrub my hands down my face. “You have got to be kidding me. News flash, Mom: a man will not cure my troubles.”
And the writing? It’s very detailed and vivid. This made for slow reading, though. I’m usually a speed-reader, but I felt I had to physically sloooow dooooown. Which is okay, because I also felt like every detail made the story pop off the page.
OTHER THINGS I REALLY LIKED:
- The setting isn’t solely classrooms. YAY. Actually, most of the setting is at their homes or at the fast-food restaurants they work at.
- It’s hilarious when Willowdean’s mother (who is in charge of the pageant) gets all righteous about how it’s “not a joke” and how it’s “so important” it just reminded me of Miss Congeniality so so much.
- How there’s a lot of emphasis on friends! And that growing up doesn’t have to mean growing apart.
- And how it smacked down cliches: the girl with horrible teeth isn’t stupid and clueless, the jock isn’t always self-obsessed, the “frumpy” girl is the sweetest thing you’ll ever meet.
- How the protagonist was pretty much a normal average person — school, work, TV, tada. No eccentricities. (Although I do love eccentric characters, it’s just nice to read about someone who’s down-to-earth once in a while.)
- Oh and tacos.
“There was some old guy catcallin’ from the drive-thru. Called me sweetcheeks.”
“Awww,” she says. “Well, that’s kind of flattering if you think about it.”
“Mama, come on. No, that’s gross.”
Okay, but we gotta talk WHY I cringe about the romance. It’s a complicated relationship, I GET THAT. It’s realistic! When society views you as looking “wrong” (like Willowdean is “fat”) then you’re going to be plagued by anxieties. But I felt Willowdean, who had such emphasis on “right thinking”, acted pathetic about it. She wallows in the no-one-will-ever-love-me attitude, but ends up torn between two guys??? REALLY?? (I hate triangle-type relationships, because someone is always being lead on/used and that’s unfair on them and cruel.)
So Willowdean meets Bo (which is an adorable name, and reminds me of Po from Graceling, whom I also adore) at work and they have a tentative summery fling. THEN THEY BREAK UP TRAGICALLY. Why? That is an excellent question, my friends. I have no idea. I don’t understand what went wrong between them. I guess they didn’t communicate about if they were going to be a couple?? And Willowdean was so obsessed with the fact that she was unwantable, that she made herself be unwantable by walking away.
Like. what.
(Anyway, I could be wrong about my analysation of their feelings. It was just so confusing for me.)
Willowdean is very self-centred. Which was hard to read about. It’s her flaw, I get it. But is she really so wrapped up in herself that she doesn’t think about the feelings of, say, her best friend?? GET A GRIP, WOMAN.
But otherwise, I feel like this is a super EMPOWERING book! It left me with an epic list of quotes that I want to just, possibly, eat because they are so good. It was just so refreshing to read about a girl who isn’t skinny. She’s just a teen trying to find her way in the world. And she messes up SO BAD. But that’s also realistic. And the ending is unexpected, a little bittersweet, and heartwarming. I’m pleased with this Dumplin’. I am.
I hear things like, “so horrible” or “I’m sorry, but she’s hideous” or “why doesn’t she get braces?”
That last one is the sentiment that stays with me all day because Hannah shouldn’t have to get braces. Maybe she can’t afford them or maybe she’s scared to get them. Either way, she shouldn’t have to fill her mouth with metal so that some shitheads will leave her alone.
THANK YOU TO PENGUIN FOR THE ARC! Dumplin’ by Julie Murphy was published in August, 2015.
Self-proclaimed fat girl Willowdean Dickson (dubbed “Dumplin’” by her former beauty queen mom) has always been at home in her own skin. Her thoughts on having the ultimate bikini body? Put a bikini on your body. With her all-American beauty best friend, Ellen, by her side, things have always worked . . . until Will takes a job at Harpy’s, the local fast-food joint. There she meets Private School Bo, a hot former jock. Will isn’t surprised to find herself attracted to Bo. But she is surprised when he seems to like her back.
Instead of finding new heights of self-assurance in her relationship with Bo, Will starts to doubt herself. So she sets out to take back her confidence by doing the most horrifying thing she can imagine: entering the Miss Clover City beauty pageant—along with several other unlikely candidates—to show the world that she deserves to be up there as much as any twiggy girl does. Along the way, she’ll shock the hell out of Clover City—and maybe herself most of all.
-~-
CAIT YOU CANNOT COMPLAIN I’M SLOW TO COMMENT NOW. xD hehe!!
Ella recently posted…Every Move by Ellie Marney :: I CRIED
NO I CANNOT. I THINK YOU JUST ARE PERFECT. 1 MINUTE, ELLA. ONE MINUTE. OMG.
Great review, I’m really looking forward to reading this! Until I read your review I didn’t realise this is a YA book, I thought Willowdean was going to be in her late 20s. I’m not sure why the blurb made me think that. I can’t wait to see what I think of it, though, and I’m so excited that this is a body positive book.
Jess @ Curiouser and Curiouser recently posted…Top Ten Tuesday | She is too fond of books, and it has turned her brain
All I do is read YA. XD So if I’m reviewing it there is like a 99% chance it is YA! hehehe but yes she kind of does look older in that little cover picture, I AGREE.
MORE FEMINISM BOOKS YES PLEASE AND THANK YOU. This sounds awesome. I can’t wait to read it (and I must watch this Miss Congeniality movie)…plus, love the glitter photo 😉
Emily @ Loony Literate recently posted…Remix by Non Pratt Blog Tour – Top 5 Tips for Teen Wirters
IS IT SOCIALLY ACCEPTABLE TO REWATCH MISS CONGENIALITY A MILLION TIMES? BECAUSE. REASONS. *flails* And awk! Thank you! I was worried I’d actually over-edited that one. xDD BUT I’M GLAD YOU LIKED IT! 😀
Ah, Dumplin’! Glad it releases this month because I am ready for it. Great to see you enjoyed it so much, especially seeing you didn’t love the author’s debut (same here.) And yes, it’s terrible how my enjoyment can affect my chances of picking up the authors next book. Usually my anticipating dwindles depending on my previous experience, which sucks because no book is the same. It’s just hard to remember, you know? Probably also because there are so many books and so little time, so we can be quite choosy. Who knows. No rec’s off the top of my head, but here’s a list of #YAFeministChat books: https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/87497._YAFeministChat They run a monthly chat, but I’ve yet to attend. Sound great though!
Rebecca @ Reading Wishes recently posted…Review: In the Skin of A Monster by Kathryn Barker
I neeeearly didn’t post my review this early BUT I COULDN’T HOLD OUT THE EXCITEMENT ANY LONGER. *flaps around like a deranged penguin* It does make me uber scared if I’ve had a sucky experience with an author’s previous books. Like feeling meh about The Winner’s Curse nearly made me skip The Winner’s Crime, BUT I LOVED THE SECOND BOOK SO SO MUCH IT’S LIKE ONE OF MY ALL-TIME-TOP FAVOURITES. So I’m a big believer in second chances.
I’m really excited to get my grubby hands on this book! And it seems AWESOME. And it seems that I’ll LOVE it. And your review just proves what I think.
Can’t wait for this book!
Wren recently posted…Review: ‘The Stars Never Rise’ by Rachel Vincent
YAAY! I AM GLAD MY REVIEW HAS DONE THIS. IT IS A REVIEW OF GRAND POWER. *pats review and rewards it with chocolate*
Good job. Good job. -feeds review Kinder- Delicious, right? (I’ve been binge-drinking warm chocolate milk and Earl Grey tea the entire day. And eating some Kinder. So hyperness activated!)
Wren recently posted…Review: ‘The Stars Never Rise’ by Rachel Vincent
I do give authors second chances, almost always. I’m in the process of giving Paige Harbison a second chance, and Julie Kagawa, my poor cherub, I LOVED Iron fey, but disliked Immortal Rules a lot, and lose to hated reading Talon, so I don’t know what to do. HELP ME CAIT. Dumplin’ sounds so so good, although I admit, the writing feels and reads a little.. bland? I don’t know, maybe it’s my expectations. Granted, the quotes were fabulous, I just, ugh. Oh, and love triangle, me no likey.
Amanda @ Nellie and Co. recently posted…How To Code Windows 8 Style Social Media Icons
OOH WELL. I DON’T KNOW THEN. XD I would say give it a try buuut…go with your gut feeling, my friend. 😉 And I’m so weird, I KNOW, but I adored Talon. Little less Rogue though. Too much moping in angst and not enough shooting people. *pouts*
Yaaaay, SO glad you liked this one! It was also recently optioned for film, so that’s awesome too. I can’t honestly say I’ll like the main character much? But eh, we’ll see. 🙂 Almost every review of this has been really, really positive, so fingers crossed I’ll love it too.
Kara @ Diary of a Teen Writer recently posted…World After || Post-Apocalyptic Angels and a Severe Lack of Raffe
I AM SO EXCITED FOR THE MOVIE. I THINK THEY’LL DO IT GLORIOUSLY. (I’m thinking of the Duff right now, though I haven’t seen that movie yet.)
This is on my TBR this month and have heard such great things and so glad you liked it too! I mean tacos and beauty pageants – how could you not. Wonderful review!
Grace @ Rebel Mommy Book Blog recently posted…Review ~ I’ll Give You the Sun
EXACTLY. Tacos + beauty pageants = a glorious book with no room to fail.
Cait, you summed up my thoughts perfectly with this book! I mean Willowdean, man I found her intimidating. But she was also hilarious and self righteous. But I didn’t like how she wallowed in her own insecurities for most of the book – especially with the romance! Like come on woman, get a head of yourself! Lovely review!
Jeann @ Happy Indulgence recently posted…Paperweight by Meg Haston Review: All the Sad Things
Exactly! She’s sitting there saying she’s unlovable and she had TWO GUYS LOVING HER. ERK. I just don’t get her tantrum over Bo. He was adorable. *shrugs* STILL. It was such a refreshing book!
A book that’s like Miss Congeniality?? My contemporary-aversed self must read it!!
I’m all for empowering large ladies like Fat Amy, and I am so excited we’re getting a movie adaptation. Looking forward to picking this up when it comes out 😀
This is the quote you put up that convinces me “That last one is the sentiment that stays with me all day because Hannah shouldn’t have to get braces. Maybe she can’t afford them or maybe she’s scared to get them. Either way, she shouldn’t have to fill her mouth with metal so that some shitheads will leave her alone.”
PREACH SISTER. I don’t want braces tyvm childhood terrors, my teeth are fine!! I am fine!!
Aentee @ Read at Midnight recently posted…Book Review: Steelheart
YES. DO READ IT. IT IS LIKE MISS CONGENIALITY IN BOOK FORM. :’) I was cackling the whole time because of this. Omg I love that movie. I need to rewatch it for the #489320 time.
I know right?! I LOVE THAT QUOTE. I nearly didn’t put it on because I try to leave off swearing on my blog buuuuut it was too excellent not to share. THAT IS THE KIND OF QUALITY LITERATURE I WANT TO BE READING.
Well, this sounds like a delicious little dumpling of a book. Seriously, though, I have to read this. Like, now. Grr. But I agree with you, love triangles are dumb. And it bugs me, not only because someone always ends up hurt, but also because how many love triangles do we see in real life? I have never had two guys vying for my affections (thankfully), but apparently literature nowadays is telling me that this is not normal. Probably I’m just hideous and I don’t know it. But really… Grr. Anyway, I have to eat this book.
I sometimes give authors second chances, depending on the circumstances. Like, if their first book is boring, I might only read their second book if it sounds interesting. But if I don’t really like an author’s style, I might be even slower to give them a second chance, so it all depends. Usually it has to do with money and availability–I’m quicker to give them another chance if I have access to more of their works through like, a library or something. But if I have to buy the books, I’m less likely to spend my money on something I’m not certain I’ll like.
Liz Brooks recently posted…Mind the Revolving Doors: The Misfortunes of a Semi-Super Hero
AGH I DON’T KNOW ABOUT REAL LIFE. I TRY TO AVOID IT TBH. But of anyone in my family? Zlich to triangles. >_> So I don’t know how realistic they truly are…I guess it’s the ultimate dream to have TWO people desperately in love with you?! Makes you feel wanted?! IDEK THERE MUST BE SOME REASON WHY AUTHOR’S INSIST ON WRITING THEM.
Oh oh that is true. I haven’t actually found many styles that I abhor though, so I haven’t skipped books because of that. Usually I swear off an author if I loathe the plot or the characters. BUT. like 90% of the time I will try a second book from them!! I definitely library it (or get a review-copy. XD) too…I take risks but pfft, not that much risks. xD
I had a very similar experience with this book, actually! Was not a huge fan of SEMV(which saddened me, b/c it had been my most anticipated standalone of 2014), so was tentative about this one. But I gave it a chance and LOVED it. I loved the characters and the Texas-ness of it all. The Texas part made it fun for me because some of it hit so close to home, but I think it’s an important read and that made me happy.
Stormy recently posted…Annual August Hiatus
YAY FOR SECOND CHANCES. *awards us with small chocolates because we clearly deserve it*
I really want to read Dumplin’. It sounds fantastic and I think it might be a book that I buy new instead of waiting for the library to get it in. I keep hearing about it everywhere and everyone says it’s a must read.
Some recently posted…Harry Potter Book Tag
IT’S SUCH A GOOD BOOK, TRULY. And you know how crazy critical I am of books. xD
I have been SO NERVOUS about this book because I want to love it so hard, so this fills me with all the good kinds of feelings that you loved it, this makes me HAPPY. ALSO, MISS CONGENIALITY GIFS. HERE, TAKE MY SOUL, I DON’T NEED IT. Basically this post is made of awesome and makes me STUPID HAPPY. Which is the kind of happy I need right now. It also makes me really, really excited to read this one, and with less of the nervous heeby jeebies that were accompanying the wanting to read, knowing that you loved it so much. I CANNOT WAIT.
Rosy @ The Review Diaries recently posted…Review: Enchantress of Paris by Marci Jefferson
THE MISS CONGENIALITY VIBE WILL WIN YOU 100% IF YOU LIKE THAT MOVIE, ROSY. I GUARENTEE IT. I just love the whole “Omg, it’s NOT a just a pageant” moment that Willowdean’s mother had. I was cracking up. XD hehe
Ok i needs this book now then, because MISS CONGENIALITY.
“IT’S ALL IN THE BUTTOCKS, DON’T I LOOK PRETTY”
Rosy @ The Review Diaries recently posted…Review: Night Owls by Jenn Bennett
Finally an MC who is “normal”. Added it to my TBR!
Angel recently posted…The Angel Messenger: I Am A Winner of Giveaways!
I know right?! I mean, I love those special crazy quirky snowflakes but…normal characters are basically refreshing.
Awesome review! I am so glad you liked this one! I am so excited to read it!! This story seems fantastic! Great review and amazing pictures!!
Theresa recently posted…Monthly Wrap-Up: July 2015
AWK, THANK YOU, THERESA!
This just sounds beautiful, and I loved all of the quotes. I’m glad I have an eARC of this now, when I first requested it I was kind of hesitant, but I’m glad to see that everyone is LOVING this.
To be honest, I don’t know what I think about the MC thinking she’s unwantable, and then breaking up with someone because of that. Though I do know this is pretty common in real life. Or maybe Bo just didn’t fill her need of being loved? I guess I’ll have to read this book and find out 🙂
Awesome review CAIT
Valerie recently posted…Review: Saga
YAAAAY!! I’M GLAD YOU’RE EXCITED FOR IT NOW! 😀 I was nervous when I got the surprise ARC but it. was. so. worth. the. risk. *flails happily*
And yes, I feel weird about all my growlings at Willowdean because while they annoyed me, I didn’t think they were particularly unrealistic, you know?! So this book gets a million points for realism for sure.
Aah yes I want this. We’ll see, library. As always , your photos are fabulous. Body image is so important, and I definitely struggle with it even though I don’t have any ‘issues’ as such and my parents are always thought ful and everything. Hmm… *looks at shelf, devoid of contemporaries* Mortal Fire by Elizabeth Knox is awesome because a) its written by a NZ author (yay patriotism) and b) there is a girl who hasa non white skin in historical ficitonal fantasy New Zealand and she isn’t skinny and it isn’t a big deal and also there are bees…
Shanti recently posted…Mini Reviews for all the books I read in the last few weeks
AWk, thank you, Shanti. I actually had to retake a few of these because the first ones had horrific colours. It’s actually really HARD to take photos of black covers for some reason. 0_0 They look washed out so easily. ANYWAY I DIGRESS. So basically I need to look up Mortal Fire. *nods*
This books looks really refreshing and I really can’t wait to check it out XD Great review, as always they make me laugh out loud! XD
YAY!!! THAT JUST MAKES MY DAY, THANK YOU, KRISTIN.
Oh, I want to read Dumplin’ SOOOOOO MUCH! But it’s not available yet… hurry up and get published! Oh, and apparently Am I Normal Yet? by Holly Bourne is feminist-y, but I haven’t read it yet, so I can’t confirm. But I’m LOVING this move towards non-beautiful protagonists. Or non-traditionally beautiful protagonists, anyway. Beautiful characters ALWAYS annoyed me. I’m just a little bit sad that books like Dumplin’ are so few and far between!
Beth x
I’ve heard of Am I Normal Yet and I WANT TO READ THAT TOO. But, pfft, you know me. I want to read all the books. I need 9 more eyeballs. But agreed and agreed. I wish it wasn’t like “OMG A BOOK THAT TALKS ABOUT REALISTIC HUMANS. FLASH NEON SIGNS SO PEOPLE COME READ IT”. It should be normal. *sigh*
So Miss Congeniality and Tacos? Um, SOLD.
Great review! I’ve been seeing this book around but I wasn’t sure if I should read it but you definitely changed my mind and I will be picking this up when it comes out.
Tina @ Tina, The Bookworm recently posted…July Wrap Up | Something Different in August
It is the combination of dreams and happiness. :’)
I’ve heard such awesome things about this book, so I’m glad to hear another positive review! I don’t know if I’m going to get to it in a particular hurry, of course, but I’m glad it seems worth reading! I hope I get a hold of it soon. 🙂
Heather recently posted…For Some Reason They Call it Cluedo
I haven’t even SEEN any reviews for it yet! WHERE ARE TEHY ALL. Although I suspect I’m reviewing a little early? Bah. Who cares. XD I’M EXCITED.
AWW THIS REVIEW GAVE ME SO MANY FEELS!! Seriously, I need to pick up this book now. So many amazing things mentioned, I feel like I’ll definitely be able to over look the not so spectacular romantic aspect. Also, I adore that cover! So simple and wonderful. Currently making heart eyes at it 😀
Lovely review, Cait!
Ashtyn @ Wonderland’s Reader recently posted…Monthly Recap: July 2015
FAJDSALK YAY THAT IS MY WISH. XXD I was really hesitant to quote it with the whole ARC thing, buuuuut…those quotes. THEY ARE SO POIGNANT AND PERFECT. I was literally taking notes the whole time I read. (Which is impressive for me because I’m a lazy squid and never take notes for reviews. hehe.)
Hey Cait! I belive in giving authors a second chance if I didn’t care too much for their other book. Because believe it or not, the more you write, the better you get so it’s likely the author got better. (And I’ll eat until the book gets some review before checking it out) this book sounds like a super adorable book and it reminds me so much of Fat Amy. Teeehe loved your Gifs!♡
That is so true! I love a lot of author’s secondary books more than their debuts! 😀 I FEEL LIKE FAT AMY WOULD APPROVE OF THIS BOOK, TOO.
I’m absolutely itching for this one to be released! I love a quirky protagonist and mix in the flaws, positive body image, humour and Miss Congeniality and I’m utterly sold. I’m sick of the slim and perfect protagonist, and considering that there are so many girls out there who don’t fit into what society sees as the ‘perfect body’, we need more of these type books in YA who will take a larger character and make her more than a stereotype. Even with her attitude not as accepting of others and being a bit self centered, she should be celebrated and authors should also take note that we need diversity, not only in the colour of our skin, but our sizes, our traits and body image as well.
Fabulous review smushy! <3
Kelly recently posted…Woo Feminism… Remix by Non Pratt
I totally think you will like this one Kelly! PFFT. Think? KNOW. I HAVE GREAT MIND READING SKILLS AFTER ALL. I think we need a million books that kick the “perfect body” stereotype out the window because it is totally a phrase that SHOULD NOT EXIST. We are all different! WE CAN’T LOOK THE SAME SO WHY DOES SOCIETY INSIST WE TRY?? Grrr.
I’ve never read a book like this one before, but I was interested in it since the first time I saw it! I’m not completely sure if it’s my thing, but I’m excited to give it a try!
Yaaay!! GOOD FOR YOU FOR BEING ADVENTUROUS TOO, THEN.
If I hear about the author’s new book, and actually read the premise and like it, then yes I will give them a second chance. I had Side Effects May Vary on my TBR, but I ended up reading Dumplin’. I think I ended up removing SEMV from my TBR, because the TBR is huge and I am not too much into contemporary romances. I have read Dumplin’, and like I told you last time we spoke, I FREAKING LOVED ITTTTTTTT. I have no words for a review, though. 🙁 Not often, we live in a world where publishers are going to support white, male authors more frequently than a white, or even PoC protesting sexism. GIMME YOUR RECS, THOUGH?! I’m pretty sure this is my first one.
FAJDSLKAFSD YAY I AM SO GLAD YOU LOVED IT TOOOO1!!! Is it just me or has no one really been reviewing it?? (Maybe it’s just too early?!) Ahhhh, but it’s so good and I just want to throw it at everyone’s heads so they adore it 😀
Although, *whispers* I don’t think publishers are the ones picking the “white male authors”. I actually think 90% of Ya is by female authors these days. And I think the reason so many of them ARE white is because that’s who is writing. But *shrugs* I AM NOT 100% IN THE INDUSTRY SO I DON’T KNOW ALL THE THINGS.
I love Miss Congeniality! I watched that movie so many times when I was younger. Now I really want to watch it again…
Can I admit that I’m not sure I can take the name “Willowdean” seriously? To be honest, I’m not sure I can take a lot of Southern quirks seriously. I’m thinking I might have some of the same issues with Willowdean that you do, but I am fully intending to read it. My library already has it on order, and I’m first on the hold list. Naturally. 😉
I have a feministic and empowering YA *fantasy* to recommend. Oh, Actually All the Rage and possibly The Revenge Playbook.
I watched it so many times too! I CAN QUOTE THAT WHOLE THING, I CAN. And whenever my sister and I are being irritating to each other we totally do the “I would really like to hurt you right now” quote, followed with “so long as you smile“. Omg, Michael Cain is the best.
I think so many Southern things are crazy too, but PFFFT. ALL YOU AMERICANS ARE CRAZY. XD In Australia we name our children logical things like Frank and Bob. (Okay, we totally don’t. I haven’t even ever met a Frank. So disappointing. I shall call my first child Frank to make up for it. And failing a child, my second dog shall be frank.)
I want to read All the Rage so badly and I’m looking up the Revenge Playbook now!
That movie….so many fond memories.
HAHAHAHAHAHA you really expect me to believe that? I KNOW WHAT YOU WERE NAMED AFTER. You can’t lie to me. 😀 (To be *frank* I think you should stick with a dog. Don’t name a kid Frank. Also, you can only say that word a handful of times before it sounds REALLY weird. Go ahead, try it.)
The feminist YA fantasy is The Seven Realms series, by the way. 😉
I’m so glad that you liked this one! I’ve been looking forward to it since I first heard about it, and luckily, this is the first review of it that I’ve read. You’ve just made me want to read it even more!!
Krystianna @ Downright Dystopian
Krystianna recently posted…Blog Tour | Never Always Sometimes
AHHH THIS IS GLORIOUS NEWS!! I really haven’t seen any reviews around either. Maybe it’s just early?! (I think it comes out at the end of the month. I’m sure it does. I have a hopeless memory though. xD) But I want to knwo what everyone thinks when they read it!:D
This post made me hungry I love dumplings, I know that has nothing to do with the book.
My fault for blogging when I’m hungry, I may read this sounds good.
Skye recently posted…SWC #5 The Troupe
I can’t even remember the last time I had a Dumplin. BUT THEY CAN BE GOOD. Pumpkin dumplings. Eeeeeh, yum.
I’ve heard different things about this book before but now I really want to read it! Great review!!! 😀
Jamie recently posted…The Day Before The Birthday
YAY. I’M GLAD I’VE CONVINCED YOU. 😉 *awards self cake*
If the author’s next book has a better premise and has more positive reviews, then I’d probably give them a second chance because maybe their first book just wasn’t for me. I haven’t read this one, but I’m definitely sold!
Precious @ Clockwork Desires recently posted…Book Review|Tiny Pretty Things by Sona Charaipotra & Dhonielle Clayton
YAY!! I hope you like it as much as me. xD I think I basically always give authors second chances. Although, well, I a bit worried about the author of Vengeance Road because it sounds sooo goood but I didn’t like her first series Taken. 0_0
I didn’t like Side Effects May Vary either Cait (can’t imagine why; it’s not like we’re twins at all), which is why I was a bit hesitant to give this one a try. But I am so glad you were willing to give it a shot and ended up enjoying it so much! Definitely going to have to pick up a copy – it sounds absolutely adorable and unique. Thanks for sharing and, as always, fabulous review! ♥
Zoe @ Stories on Stage recently posted…Crimson Bound
OH SURPRISE SURPRISE. 😉 XD But it is totally worth a try. *whispers* It’s like it’s a completely different author, tbh.
I’m SO happy that you liked this book. The issues you had with it sound like they might bother me too (especially the weird love triangle), but I’ve had my eyes on this book for a while, and I’m excited to read it! I love reading about protagonists with a positive body image, especially if their body doesn’t conform to what society deems beautiful. I think I’m definitely going to give this one a try at some point. Also, I LOVE that pic with the red glitter (it’s glitter right?) and the book in the background, chapeau.
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This sounds great! I kind of like Willowdean based on your description, but I get how her being self-centered could be annoying to read about. The pageant thing and how most of the book takes place not in school but at home/places the kids work at, sounds great. I don’t mind love triangles either. Hah I thinks this will be another one for the TBR list. And I have so many already!
I ADORE the actual different-from-normal-YA settings because I homeschooled, so reading 90% of contemporaries set in highschools does bug me because I can’t relate. Noooot that I’ve ever worked in a fast food restaurant, BUT I’vE BEEN TO ONE SO MORE RELATING FOR ME. *nods* OMG YOU’RE WELCOME THO. I’m sure your tbr
hatesloves me.This book certainly sounds like it has the relatable factor for me. Fat protagonist who speaks all the good stuff but doesn’t listen to her own damn advice…yes, yes, yes. Also: self-absorbed. OH MY DAYS. That is my one biggest flaw among all the others! GAH. But please tell me she goes on a massive learning curve and finally takes life by the reins or whatever it is coming-of-age(ish) protagonists do when faced with their own problems???
I don’t find many feminist contemporaries (well not ones that are very obviously so) but when I do, unless it tickles my fancy, I don’t fangirl about it much. Maybe cos of how common sense they are…but with this book you can totally see how it appeals to the women and girls everywhere who’ve been loving characters like Miss Congeniality and Fat Amy and all these other women who’ve been finally saying all the obvious stuff. So yeah, this is a priority read for me now!
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HAHA. Actually that’s true. 0_0 The whole speaks-good-but-doesn’t-take-her-advice? I can relate to that too, I suppose. I mean I rant on my blog about blogging for fun and then go cry to my sister when I fall behind comments. XD HAHA. Ahem. But that’s off topic. Anyway. DUDE THERE IS GREAT CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT, DO NOT FEAR.
Y’know I would have never guessed that the protagonist is self-absorbed. Self-pitying maybe, but I gravitated towards the idea that Willodean would be this wonderfully selfless person but it’s not a bad thing that she’s the opposite of what I thought.
YAY FOR EMPOWERING. I got so excited after seeing pictures of people doing the Dumplin pose.
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I could have perceived her wrong too. XD DON’T FORGET THAT. But seriously there were a few instances were she was totally “it’s all about me” and basically drove this big wedge between her and her BFF and I was soooooo mad. STILL. ULTIMATELY. I DO LOVE HER.
When I first heard about this one, I wasn’t sure I would like it. But it sounds awesome. I have read so many great reviews. And you haven’t let me down quite yet in your recommendations. 🙂 Most of the time, I will give an author a second chance if I didn’t like their second book. It would probably depend on how much the premise pulls me in, but I would definitely go in with lower than usual expectations. But if I read two books by the author and don’t like either one . . . then, I’m out.
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WELL THIS IS GOOD NEWS. LET’S HOPE I DON’T BREAK MY NOT-LETTING-DOWN-RECORD, RIGHT?! *sweats nervously* x)
Definitely want to read this now, despite that triangle of love… And Bo! And Po! I love Graceling! I love those adorable short names. 🙂 Great review. And gorgeous book photography, as usual!
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I know right?! I LOVE CUTE NAMES. And Graceling is absolutely amazing and…reminds me that I need to finish that trilogy. xD Aw, thank you Mallory!
i always see/hear about Dumplin’ everywhere! but surpisingly i haven’t gotten myself to read a review about it till i came across you <333 ((so you better feel special cait!)
damn there's going to be a love triangle in it?? smh they are the bane of my existence :// but anyway the word tacos was mentioned in your review so im gonna read this book soon! this is gonna be my first book that includes pageants in it heh
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I FEEL SPECIAL. And weirdly I just actually haven’t seen ANYONE talking about it. :O I want to read reviews and see what everyone thinks!!
And yus, t hat’s basically the only downside: darn love triangle. *growls* The tacos make up for it, though.
This sound really good! Thank you for sharing, Cait. I am so sick of the YA trope where almost every girl needs a guy. It’s just so annoying and unrealistic! And character’s attitudes can annoy me as well. I think it’s good to give authors second chances and I feel (although I don’t remember) that I have and have been pleasantly surprised. This book, however, sounds like a breath of fresh air. If it ever approaches me (tiger like, creeping through long grass, I expect), I will seize the opportunity to devour it! (was that violent? it sounded violent.)
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IT IS ANNOYING. ERGHHHHH. And I feel like it’s in every. single. book these days. I’d like to read about a teenager who wanted (and was happy) to be single and focus on her hobbies/interests or something. >_> BUT YES. Apart from the love-triangle, it is totally a breath of fresh air.
I really need to read this book now! I absolutely adore books that focus on physical appearance and body image, as I myself have had a lot of bitter experiences regarding insecurity. This book sounds so beautiful and positive, and I can’t wait to read it!
Lovely review Cait!
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YES. I mean, most people struggle with body-image-insecurities at some point right?! So I think that makes Dumplin on a sure path to be relatable to nearly-maybe-everyone.
Caaaait! I so need this book in my life! I want it, I need it! Pleaaaaase! It sounds so awesome! Feminist YA, how I love you! I’m kind of into feminist YA at the moment. And because of this I’m finding a lot of feminist YA jumping out at me (Coincidence? Subconcious cosmic ordering? Or just following feminist authors on Twitter who tweet about other feminist books? It’s a mystery.), and I am reading and reviewing, and planning on a big ol’ feminist YA post – one thats more than just a list, but an actual discussion, and I AM EXCITED! It’s going to be awesome. I hope.
Ooh, two books ago I read a book by an author who’s first book I was feeling pretty meh about. But this book was on mental health. And feminism. And was raved about. So I read it (Am I Normal Yet? by Holly Bourne), and it was awesome, and I am a happy bunny! Sometimes, if I REALLY dislike a book, I just can’t bring myself to try anything else by an author. But for ‘meh’ books, I can be persuaded to try another. But it’s got to be good persuading, or sound extremely good. I just don’t like getting burned.
I will recommend you read Asking For It by Louise O’Neill. Feministy! On rape culture and victim blaming! And it’s amazing! Everyone needs to read it. Everyone. SO important!
Thanks for the awesome review, Cait! 🙂
YES YOU DO NEED IT, JO. THIS ONE IS FOR YOU. I think maybe authors and publishers are just fiiiinally hearing that we want feministic books?! I HOPE ANYWAY. I hope they keep coming.
Oh oh yes, I want to read Am I Normal Yet, although I don’t think it’s being published in australia, so I’ll proooobably need to wait for my library to get it. (I can nudge my library and sometimes they buy things for me. ^_^) AND YES I’M GOING TO DEFINITELY READ LOUSIE O’NEILL’S NEW BOOK. I will read all her books, even though they stab my feels.
I have seen a lot of images of this book on bookstagram but I actually had no idea what this book was about. But beauty pageant? Feminism? And a realistic main character who is against conforming for society but is still struggling to accept herself anyway like a lot of us are? Sign me up! I am adding this one to my TBR right now…
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YES YOU NEED READ THIS ONE. I PROMISE IT IS EXCELLENT. It’s getting a lot of promo/hype too, which is risky because that can so often turn people off books, but in this case? I THINK IT’S WORTH IT.
Oooh this sounds like a fabulous book! I was a bit wary when I read ‘love triangle’ but your review made me want to read it nonetheless 😀
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DUMPLIN’. Aah. I finished it about a week ago ago and it was superb and so far my favourite book of 2015 and the first one that bought me close to emotion. I had difficulties with some of Willowdean’s behaviour and elements of the romance, but it all felt so real that it didn’t really impede my enjoyment of the story. I felt it so genuinely and personally and I just loved it to bits. Aah. The day old memories. Good times.
I have never seen this film you speak of, but it has Michael Cain and I AM IN. The boat has left and I’m sailing on it.
Lovely review, Cait. xx
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