Dairy Queen

Catherine Gilbert Murdock
Started in 2006
3 Books

About the Series

The 'Dairy Queen' series follows the story of a teenage girl named DJ Schwenk, who is navigating the trials of high school while also managing her family's dairy farm. The narrative blends elements of sports, family dynamics, and self-discovery, as DJ learns to balance her responsibilities at home with her passion for football and her complicated feelings for her classmates. The series is characterized by its humor, heartwarming moments, and authentic portrayal of rural life and teenage struggles.

Series Details

  • Author:Catherine Gilbert Murdock
  • Started:2006
  • Books:3
  • Status:Complete

Genres

Young AdultContemporary FictionSportsComing-of-Age

Themes

Family and ResponsibilitySelf-DiscoveryFriendshipLove and RelationshipsRural Life

Books in Order

1

Dairy Queen

2006

In the first book, DJ Schwenk takes on the challenges of being the only girl on the boys' football team while dealing with the pressures of her family’s dairy farm and the complications of her feelings for her childhood friend. As DJ navigates her newfound passion for football, she learns important lessons about self-acceptance and the value of friendship.

Series StartCore Series
2

The Off Season

2007

The second installment sees DJ coming to terms with her place in the world after a tough football season and the emotional fallout from her relationships. As she faces new challenges, including a devastating family crisis, DJ must decide what truly matters in her life and how to stand up for herself.

Core Series
3

Front and Center

2009

In the series finale, DJ is now a senior and her life is filled with new opportunities and challenges. Balancing her football aspirations with her personal relationships, she learns to embrace her own identity and future. This book wraps up DJ's journey of growth, empowerment, and pursuing her dreams amidst the complexities of love and loyalty.

Series Finale

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 'Dairy Queen' series suitable for younger readers?

Yes, the 'Dairy Queen' series is suitable for young adult readers and often appeals to middle school students as well due to its relatable themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery.

Can the books be read as standalones?

While each book can stand on its own, the series is best enjoyed in order to fully appreciate DJ's character development and the continuity of her story.

What inspired Catherine Gilbert Murdock to write the series?

Catherine Gilbert Murdock was inspired by her experiences growing up in a rural setting and her love for sports, particularly football. She aimed to create a relatable protagonist who embodies the struggles and triumphs of adolescence while also representing the unique challenges of rural life.

You Might Also Enjoy