DUMPLIN'

Willowdean (Dumplin') is a fat girl who's content in her own skin. Narrator Eileen Stevens provides an appealing look into the workings of Will's mind. Will describes herself as a "cashier, Dolly Parton enthusiast, and resident fat girl." Her attitude is upbeat and positive, but she's not saccharine sweet. Stevens gives her appropriate teenaged snarkiness, and each deep sigh speaks volumes. When a big disappointment causes Will to lose her focus, she becomes anxious and insecure. Her mother coordinates the annual Blue Bonnet Beauty Pageant, and, surprisingly, Will decides to enter--without losing weight. Soon more "outsider" teens enter as well. Stevens depicts body image issues, first romance, drag queens, and rebellious beauty queens. Listeners won't want to miss meeting this funny, original heroine. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2015]