I vaguely remember this book coming out a few years ago and thinking, “That’s one that I want to read.” But then I never got around to it…until now!
Dumplin’ is the heartfelt story of Willowdean Dickson from a small Texas town that is all about high school football and the Miss Teen Blue Bonnet beauty pageant. Willowdean has never really liked the beauty pageant. First, because her mom has been in charge of running it for the last fifteen years, and secondly, because Willowdean is overweight. This year, however, Willowdean decides to enter the contest to prove that beauty and confidence can be found in all sizes.
I really liked the complex emotions it showed in Willowdean, her outward confidence strained with her inner insecurities. It proves that even though we can put up a good front, even the strongest of us have times of doubt that can hold us back (which is something I struggle with personally). As the book says, “I guess sometimes the perfection we perceive in others is made up of a whole bunch of of tiny imperfections, because some days the damn dress just won’t zip.”
It also shows us about friendship and forgiveness. In the story, Willowdean’s best friend is Ellen, who is tall, goofy, and perfect. After Willowdean signs up for the pageant, Ellen follows her, which causes the girls to have an argument. They’ve been friends since they were little kids, and Willowdean’s always been very aware of people’s reactions to their friendship (like wondering if Ellen is her friend because she feels bad for Willowdean). On top of all that, Ellen is getting serious with her boyfriend and Willowdean has a secret romance going with a coworker that she doesn’t want to spoil by talking about. All of this tension builds and ultimately comes out in their argument. While they are estranged, Willowdean finds some unlikely friendship is a group of girls who follow her lead and join the pageant even though they are not “pageant material.” Millie is a very plus sized girl with a bubbly, child-like personality. Amanda has a issue with her legs (one is shorter than the other) and has to wear thick corrective shoes. Hannah is half-Dominican with a bad attitude and even worse teeth. Their game plan is to rock the competition, and Willowdean is their unofficial leader. Through this Willowdean learns that being a good friend isn’t always putting yourself first.
The only part I had issue with was her secret coworker romance with Private School Bo. If a guy kisses you, then says, “I’m not really in a good place and don’t need a girlfriend right now,” should you still go around kissing him? No! I wanted to reach into the book and give Willowdean a good talking to. Anyways, it eventually works itself out, but that was my only criticism.
Overall, this book was heartfelt, spunky, and showed some real depth. I'd give it a 4/5.
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