The DUFF (novel)
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 2010 |
| Founder | Kody Keplinger |
| Products | Young adult novel |
The DUFF is a young adult novel authored by American writer Kody Keplinger and published in 2010. Keplinger completed the manuscript at the age of 17, with the book officially released on September 7, 2010. A cinematic version premiered on February 20, 2015. Subsequently, a related novel titled Lying Out Loud, set within the same narrative world, was published on April 28, 2015.
Plot
Bianca Piper, a high schooler, often spends time at a local teen hangout known as the Nest with her friends. One evening, Wesley Rush—who has a reputation as a ladies' man—approaches Bianca and labels her the DUFF (Designated Ugly Fat Friend), explaining that his association with her attracts more appealing girls. Offended, Bianca walks away but later impulsively kisses Wesley following a difficult day.
Bianca’s mother Gina, who works as a self-help speaker, increasingly travels for business and eventually sends divorce papers to Bianca’s father, Mike. This event causes Mike to relapse into alcoholism and engage in harmful conduct. When Wesley plans to collaborate on an English assignment at Bianca’s home, she suggests they meet at his place instead to conceal her family issues. The two share another kiss and spend the night together, although Bianca insists she dislikes him while Wesley continues calling her "Duffy." She keeps both their relationship and her parents’ separation hidden from her peers.
At school, Jessica mentions that her brother Jake will be visiting, reminding Bianca of a previous romantic encounter with him. Looking for distraction, Bianca intensifies her casual involvement with Wesley but starts distancing herself from Jessica and Casey. Eventually, she opens up to them about her parents' divorce. On Valentine’s Day, Toby Tucker—Bianca’s long-time crush—expresses interest in her while Gina discusses the divorce with Mike, which triggers his relapse.
After Bianca's car breaks down and Wesley gives her a ride, she meets his family and gains insight into his personal challenges. Later at home, an intoxicated Mike verbally abuses Bianca, prompting her to seek refuge at Wesley’s where she confides about her family struggles. She subsequently shares with Casey both the concept of the DUFF and her feelings for Wesley.
Mike stops drinking and begins attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Bianca mends her friendships with Jessica and Casey but distances herself from Wesley as Toby asks her out. While dating Toby, Wesley persistently pursues Bianca. Following Toby’s recommendation to read Wuthering Heights, Bianca relates to the novel’s complex relationships and realizes that the DUFF label is insignificant because social dynamics evolve over time. Committed to ceasing judgment of others, she accepts that there is no chemistry between her and Toby; they part on good terms. Bianca then joins Wesley at the Nest and proposes they start dating in a conventional manner.
Development
The DUFF originated as a humorous idea during Keplinger’s senior year at McLean County High School in 2009 after she first encountered the term DUFF (Designated Ugly Fat Friend). One morning after Christmas break, she overheard a conversation where a girl referred to her friend as "the DUFF." Keplinger recognized that everyone tends to feel like the DUFF within their social circles and decided playfully to write a novel titled The DUFF.
In a webcast, Keplinger stated:
"I began writing because I believed I was the DUFF in my group. As I wrote more and talked it over with friends, I realized that nearly everyone has felt like the least attractive person at some point—something Bianca also learns throughout the story."
Reception
Andrea Simakis from The Plain Dealer acknowledged the novel's potential, praising its "spot-on dialogue, skillful writing, and witty sarcasm," but ultimately criticized it for lacking uniqueness, drawing an unfavorable comparison to Clueless.
Amanda Tew of The Florida Times-Union commended the relatable protagonist and the dynamic interactions among characters, noting that "every girl can easily identify with Bianca – we've all experienced feeling like the DUFF at some time," while also warning about the mature sexual themes that may not be suitable for younger audiences.
The Guardian provided a favorable critique, emphasizing Keplinger’s genuine teenage perspective and her exploration of serious issues such as body image, addiction, and the sacrifices involved in friendships, balanced with passionate moments and a romantic triangle that captivate readers.
Film adaptation
The film version of The DUFF, featuring Mae Whitman and Robbie Amell and directed by Ari Sandel, premiered on February 20, 2015. It earned $43.7 million globally against a production budget of $8.5 million.