Puddin' by Julie Murphy

I loved this.  Just as I loved Dumplin', I could not put this down.  In fact, I was sitting in the sun reading it for so long, I got burned.  Those of you who know me in the real world know I'm dark enough to not burn, which gives you an idea of just how long I was sitting there.

First and foremost, Murphy or her publishers have this labeled as a "companion" to Dumplin', but I really feel you need to have read Dumplin' first.  There are several characters whose motivations and connections the reader would not understand if not having read Dumplin' first.  That being said, Dumplin' was awesome!  I didn't review it here, but for Nutmeg.  And I fought hard for it to be a nominee!

Puddin' focuses on two of the characters from Dumplin': Millie, who appeared in Willowdean's pageant, and Callie, who became Ellen's friend when she abandoned Willowdean.  See what I mean?  Without having read the first book, you'd not know that connection.

Plot synopsis: Callie and her gang of snob dance team members vandalize Millie's uncle's business when he pulls his sponsorship of the team.  Callie is the only one recognizable in the security footage.  Her sentence is community service: working for free to pay off the damage.  Thus, Millie and Callie will be spending a lot of time together.  They form a very unlikely friendship that reminds us friends do not need to look alike. 

I do believe there is going to be another book in the series, as the rest of this group of friends on the Island of Misfit Toys is explored.  Most were juniors in this book, leaving another year at Clover City High.  I'll be waiting!

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All opinions expressed on this blog are solely those of Mrs. W.