"Dairy Queen" by Catherine Gilbert Murdock is a heartwarming and relatable coming-of-age story that follows the journey of D.J. Schwenk, a 15-year-old girl who lives on a dairy farm in rural Wisconsin. D.J. is no ordinary teenager – she is strong, determined, and excels at working on the farm. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she ends up taking over her brother's position as the football team's summer training coach.
Murdock skillfully captures D.J.'s struggle to find her identity and place in the world. As she navigates the challenges of being a girl in a male-dominated sport, she also grapples with her own dreams and desires. D.J.'s voice is genuine and authentic, allowing readers to delve into the complex emotions and inner turmoil of a young woman searching for her own path.
One of the standout aspects of "Dairy Queen" is its well-developed and dynamic characters. D.J. is a refreshingly relatable protagonist, with her insecurities and flaws making her more endearing. The supporting characters, such as her best friend Amber and her family, are equally well-crafted and add depth to the story. Their relationships and interactions are portrayed with authenticity, immersing the reader in this close-knit community.
Available on Audible
Murdock's writing style is simple yet impactful, making it easy to become absorbed in the story. The book strikes a perfect balance between humor and heartfelt moments, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. Through D.J.'s journey, the author explores themes of self-discovery, perseverance, and the importance of pursuing one's dreams.
Overall, "Dairy Queen" is an engaging and heartwarming coming-of-age tale that will captivate readers of all ages. Catherine Gilbert Murdock's storytelling prowess shines through in this novel, which not only delves into the challenges of growing up but also celebrates the power of determination and the bonds of family and friendship.
What are readers saying?
Catherine Gilbert Murdock's book "Dairy Queen" has garnered mixed reviews from readers. It tells the story of a fifteen-year-old girl named D.J. Schwenk, who unexpectedly finds herself playing football on her family's dairy farm in Wisconsin. Let's summarize the range of feedback this book has received.
1. Positive Feedback: Many readers appreciated the unique premise of a girl playing football in a rural setting. They commended Murdock's writing style and found the protagonist, D.J., relatable and well-developed. The book's portrayal of life on a dairy farm and the dynamics within D.J.'s family received high praise. Overall, these readers found "Dairy Queen" to be an engaging and heartwarming coming-of-age tale.
2. Negative Feedback: Some readers felt that the book's pacing was slow, particularly in the first half. They struggled to connect with the characters and felt that the story lacked depth. A few readers were also disappointed with the limited football action considering its significance to the plot.
3. Character Development: The reviews consistently highlighted the impressive character development in "Dairy Queen." Readers were impressed with D.J.'s growth and evolution throughout the story as she faced challenges and discovered her own inner strength. They admired how she defied gender stereotypes in sports and pursued her passion for football.
4. Emotional Impact: Many readers became emotionally invested in the story. They appreciated the book's exploration of themes such as family, friendship, and self-discovery. The heartfelt moments and the tackling of serious issues, such as grief and personal growth, deeply resonated with these readers.
DairyQueen YAReads ComingOfAge