From School Library Journal Gr 9 Up—On the heels of her success in the Miss Clover City pageant, Millie Michalchuk is determined to pursue her dream of broadcast journalism and not let her weight define her life. Callie Reyes is the pretty and popular queen bee who is better at having useful frenemies than actual friends. When Callie's revenge prank spirals out of control, it destroys the image that she's cultivated for herself and leaves her working side by side with Millie. As the girls get to know each other beyond superficial impressions, their very different strengths push both girls toward what will make them truly happy. Full of humor and heart, fans of Dumplin' will not be disappointed by this book that builds nicely on the themes of self-confidence and self-acceptance without falling into lecture. This is a highly character-driven book and the authentically complex characters are up to the task. Not only is Murphy capable of taking both the popular and unpopular girl beyond tropes, but Millie is a starkly different character than Dumplin's Willowdean. Though very different, they believably find common ground fighting the superficial boxes teenagers often find themselves in and examining the defenses they've built to survive them. VERDICT This companion to the very popular Dumplin' introduces more memorable characters for whom readers can't help but cheer. A first purchase.—Elizabeth Saxton, Tiffin, OH Read more Review “This companion to the very popular Dumplin’ introduces more memorable characters for whom readers can’t help but cheer.” (School Library Journal)“Julie Murphy has created the platonic love story of a lifetime. I am wildly in love with Puddin’.” (Becky Albertalli, award-winning author of Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda)“Murphy’s plot brims with unlikely friendships, irresistible romance, fabulous fat acceptance, and a kick-ass ending. Buoying.” (Kirkus Reviews (starred review))“Murphy’s energetic writing style makes for compulsive readability.” (Booklist)“Texans and non-Texans alike will appreciate getting to know two strong-minded Lone Star girls.” (Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books)“A wonderful story of young romance, body acceptance, and unlikely friendships.” (Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA))Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “An exquisite, thoughtful exploration of the ties that bind and the fluidity of relationships, sexuality, and life.” (Kirkus Reviews (starred review))Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “Julie Murphy knows a thing or two about navigating the worlds of girls on the brink of self-discovery.” (Booklist (starred review))Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “A must-have work that will resonate with teens” (School Library Journal)Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “Julie Murphy delivers a fresh and glorious love story that addresses all the complexities of one’s heart. Ramona Blue’s discovery of limitless love is total beauty.” (Adam Silvera, New York Times bestselling author of More Happy Than Not) Read more See all Editorial Reviews
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