Julie Murphy is an American author known for her young adult novels that often explore themes of body positivity and self-acceptance. She gained widespread recognition for her debut novel, Dumplin', which tells the story of a plus-size teenager who enters a beauty pageant. The book was well-received and later adapted into a film. In addition to Dumplin', Murphy has written several other novels, including Puddin' and Faith: Taking Flight. Her work often features diverse characters and promotes messages of empowerment and inclusivity, making her a prominent voice in contemporary young adult literature.