Plot Summary

Dairy Queen

Catherine Gilbert Murdock
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Dairy Queen

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2006

Book Brief

Catherine Gilbert Murdock

Dairy Queen

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

278

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Wisconsin • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2006

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

930L

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Super Short Summary

Dairy Queen by Catherine Gilbert Murdock follows fifteen-year-old D.J. Schwenk as she navigates farm life, high school, romance, and her dysfunctional family in Red Bend, Wisconsin. Amidst quitting sports to help on the farm and failing English, D.J. agrees to train Hawley’s quarterback, Brian. Their bond deepens, encouraging D.J. to communicate more. She joins the Red Bend football team, and her journey culminates in newfound self-worth and courage.

Heartwarming

Inspirational

Contemplative

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.1

28,472 ratings

63%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Dairy Queen by Catherine Gilbert Murdock explores themes of family, responsibility, and self-discovery through its relatable protagonist. Readers commend its authentic voice and engaging narrative, though some find the plot progression slow. The depiction of farm life and character development is praised, yet the dialogue occasionally lacks depth. Overall, it’s a heartwarming and thoughtful young adult novel.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Dairy Queen?

A reader who would enjoy Dairy Queen by Catherine Gilbert Murdock is typically a young adult interested in stories about personal growth, sports, and farm life. Fans of Friday Night Lights and The Princess Diaries may appreciate the blend of athletic ambition and relatable teenage challenges present in this novel.

4.1

28,472 ratings

63%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

278

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Wisconsin • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2006

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

930L

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