The Off Season - Softcover

"This funny, touching follow-up to Dairy Queen (2006), a 2007 Best Book for Young Adults, succeeds whether read on its own or as a sequel. . . . D. J. is an easygoing, likable narrator, full of self-deprecating humor and insight, and her struggles, whether they are everyday or life altering, will resonate with teen audiences." --Booklist, ALA

"More ambitious and wide-ranging than its prequel, The Off Season provides an insightful glimpse into the rewards and challenges of the culture of middle-American farm families. At the same time, it's a broad-strokes portrait of a quintessential tomboy. D.J.'s voice is all her own--strong-minded but insecure, unstructured but witty, practical but emotional--and she is easy to cheer for, whether she's accosting a bully or awkwardly trying to understand the people and relationships that so often confuse her." --Horn Book

"Though D.J. is an enormously likable character, the impact of this book is carried through the action." --Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"The main character is likable...[She] has qualities uniquely her own that readers can relate to, sympathize with and ultimately admire." --KLIATT

"D.J.'s self-deprecating, down-to-earth voice will draw readers in, even if they have yet to read 'Dairy Queen'." --Minn. StarTribune

"There is action as well as introspection in this story of overcoming adversity...attracting and inspiring...Murdock has another winner." --VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates)

"The tragicomedy is powerful." --Columbus Dispatch