Pumpkin by Author Julie Murphy

"Pumpkin" is a fun, heartfelt, and well-written novel that celebrates individuality, self-acceptance, and the power of love and friendship

on Jun 26, 2023

Pumpkin by Author Julie Murphy | Frontlist

In "Pumpkin," the final installment of the Dumplin' trilogy by Author Julie Murphy, readers are once again transported to the small town of Clover City, Texas, where they are introduced to Waylon Russell Brewer.

Waylon is a fat, openly gay teenager with big dreams of leaving his hometown and becoming a drag queen. With the support of his loving family and his best friend and twin sister, Clementine, Waylon embarks on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

One of the highlights of this book is the diverse and inclusive cast of characters. Waylon's family is incredibly supportive, and his twin sister, Clementine, is a lesbian who has a girlfriend named Hannah.

The representation of LGBTQ+ characters and relationships in a small Texas town adds depth and authenticity to the story. The inclusion of an LGBT school club called Prism showcases the importance of finding a community where individuals can be their true selves.

The author’s writing is humorous, charming, and heartfelt. She effortlessly captures the voice of Waylon, a protagonist who is relatable and endearing. Waylon's struggles with his body image and self-confidence are sensitively portrayed, and readers will root for him as he navigates the challenges of high school and the unexpected nomination for prom queen.

The romance in the book is both heartwarming and captivating. Waylon's chemistry with Tucker, the prom king nominee, is palpable, and their evolving relationship is filled with both tender moments and delightful banter.

Beyond the romance, "Pumpkin" also delves into important themes such as the importance of embracing one's true self and the power of friendship. The strong bond between Waylon and his sister, Clementine, is a highlight of the book, as they support each other through the ups and downs of life.

Additionally, the book touches on issues such as bullying, toxic masculinity, and the pressure to conform, providing opportunities for reflection and discussion.

The author’s portrayal of Clover City and its inhabitants is vivid and immersive. The small town setting serves as a backdrop for the characters' journeys and highlights the challenges they face in a community that is not always accepting of their identities. The inclusion of a drag show adds an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the story.

Overall, "Pumpkin" is a fun, heartfelt, and well-written novel that celebrates individuality, self-acceptance, and the power of love and friendship. The author’s ability to create relatable characters and tackle important themes with humor and sensitivity is commendable.

This book is a delightful conclusion to the Dumplin' trilogy and will leave readers with a sense of hope and joy. It is a must-read for fans of previous books and anyone looking for an engaging and uplifting story.