Dumplin'
#1 of 3 in Dumplin' Series
on Goodreads (90,655)
What’s inside...
Self-proclaimed fat girl Willowdean Dickson, nicknamed 'Dumplin'' by her beauty queen mother, has always been confident in her own skin. Living in Texas, she lives by putting a bikini on her body and enjoys life with her best friend, Ellen. However, things change when she meets Bo at her new job at Harpy’s. Attracted to Bo, she is surprised when he likes her back, which causes her to doubt herself. To regain her confidence, she enters the Miss Clover City beauty pageant, shocking the community and herself. The story unfolds with starry Texas nights, Dolly Parton songs, and a powerful message of self-love. Now adapted into a popular Netflix film starring Jennifer Aniston and Danielle Macdonald, with a soundtrack from Dolly Parton.
Character compass
Willowdean Dickson
Hannah Perez
Millie Michalchuk
Ellen Dryver
Mitch
Bo Larson
Rosie Dickson
Mitch Lewis
Ellen Sadie Rose
Millie Ranea Michalchuk
Willowdean Opal Dickson
Bekah Cotter
Amanda Lumbard
Patrick Thomas
Billy Larson
Sammy Larson
Loraine Larson
Discussion points
How do you think Willowdean's relationship with her mother affects her self-confidence?
What do you think about Willowdean's decision to enter the beauty pageant? What would you have done in her place?
Why do you think friendships are important in the book? How do Willowdean's friendships change throughout the story?
How does the author portray the idea of body positivity? How do the characters in the book embrace or challenge these ideas?
What did you learn about self-acceptance and courage from Dumplin'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the characters' decisions and actions, reinforcing that all perspectives are valid.
Discuss the theme of self-acceptance and ask your child how they feel about themselves and their own unique qualities.
Focus on the friendships portrayed in the book. Ask your child about their friendships and the qualities they value in their friends.
Explore the book’s setting and cultural elements, discussing how these influence the characters and their experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance and confidence
Explanation: The protagonist, Willowdean, demonstrates self-acceptance by embracing her body image despite societal pressures and stereotypes. She enters a beauty pageant to challenge norms and assert her self-worth.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate their unique qualities and feel confident in who they are, regardless of external opinions or standards.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Willowdean experiences conflicts and misunderstandings with her friends and family, reflecting real interpersonal challenges. Through these experiences, she learns to understand different perspectives.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to foster empathy, promoting a deeper understanding and respect for the feelings and viewpoints of others in their lives.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Willowdean encounters bullying and rejection. Her determination to continue participating in the pageant despite these obstacles showcases her resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persevere through their challenges and setbacks, understanding that resilience is key to overcoming obstacles in life.
Example Lesson: The importance of supportive relationships
Explanation: The book highlights the strength of friendships and supportive relationships, as Willowdean navigates her journey with the help of loyal friends.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of building and maintaining positive relationships, and how these connections can provide support during difficult times.