I enjoy a good sequel. There are always some good ones, and there are also some bad ones. Like movies, some books don’t need sequels but you get them anyway. For others, a sequel or companion never hurt anybody. Case in point: book #9 for 2019.

Book Read: Puddin’
Author: Julie Murphy
Number of Books Read, 2019 Edition: 9

Millie Michalchuk took a chance and signed up for the Miss Blue Bonnet Teen Pageant in Dumplin’. She has her sights on a different summer than usual. Rather than going to the fat camp her mother insists she goes to, Millie wants to go to journalism camp, and maybe kiss the boy she’s been crushing on. Mille’s high school experience has included being “oinked” at, being called fat (which she admits she is), and being an outcast with her best friend. But Millie is optimistic and refuses to let things get her down.

Callie Reyes is next in line for dance team captain and happens to be dating the cool guy in school. The Shamrocks dance team is a tradition in her family. They have a shot at Nationals this year, but the team’s funding was just cut. The Shamrocks are out for revenge and Callie could be considered a mean girl.

When circumstances lead to Callie and Millie working together, over a course of a semester, they realize they have a lot more in common than just being in a pageant together. Millie improves Callie’s attitude, and Callie provides advice, from boys to standing up for yourself when rejected. Together, they might just surprise everyone on how friendships are made.

Add in a crush that might like Millie back, a group of girlfriends who rally together, a few groundings, and an all night car ride, and you’ve got Puddin’.

Julie Murphy has another winner on her hands with Puddin’. I’d recommend reading Dumplin’ first to get the background, but this young adult novel is a great read. Callie is a typical “mean girl,” who frankly at first is a pain in the butt. You’ll be hoping she changes her attitude and outlook. Millie is energetic and accept her body for what it is. You’re rooting for her every step of the way because she genuinely seems that great.

This is a worthy read, full of friendship, high school romance, and woman power. It moves along in a quick pace, has a few twists and turns, has characters you’ll be in support of, and is a story about the power of friendship. A young adult novel worth the read.

Next Read: The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris