The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
Review by Lauren
Source: library copy; all opinions are my own
Official Summary: Welcome to the story of Despereaux Tilling, a mouse who is in love with
music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It is also the story of a rat
called Roscuro, who lives in the darkness and covets a world filled with
light. And it is the story of Miggery Sow, a slow-witted serving girl
who harbors a simple, impossible wish. These three characters are about
to embark on a journey that will lead them down into a horrible dungeon,
up into a glittering castle, and, ultimately, into each other’s lives.
What happens then? As Kate DiCamillo would say: Reader, it is your
destiny to find out.
Review: This was another novel that I was assigned for my children’s literature course. I saw the movie back when it was released, but I had never read the book. I’m glad to finally have had the chance to do so, though, because the story is really cute. It follows a few different points of view to give an overall fairy-tale like story.
Throughout the book there are some black and white drawings depicting certain scenes, which was a nice touch. This would be a great book to read aloud as DiCamillo often addresses the readers. She asks them questions and tells them to imagine moments. It’s a nice way to get them involved and further interested in the story.
I love that DiCamillo explains the emotions of the characters in the book. Even if they do not always behave well, she helps the readers understand where they are coming from.
A cute book overall!
I saw the movie but haven't read the book, maybe I should, it sounds really well done, mainly about the feelings.
This sounds like the kind of fun, cute read that I'd enjoy. Your course sounds wonderful.
Haven't seen or read but the emotions of the characters sounds like a positive
Glad this was a cute read and different enough from the movie to make it seem like a new read (so to speak).
Great review!
I love reading her books aloud! I actually read them aloud to my kids a lot. I've read most of her books and am a big fan!
I read this SUCH a long time ago but it's such a sweet tale and I thoroughly enjoyed the manner in which the story was told. Great review! 🙂
I have not seen the movie or read the book. Sounds like a terrific book to read aloud like you said. I will have to read this with my kids.
I haven't heard of this one but sounds like a really interesting story. I'm so glad you enjoyed it and cute reads are the kind I love. Great review 🙂
I remember reading this one when I was young and really liking it! Actually, it might have been my first "real" book outside of picture books, haha. Glad you liked it!
I haven't read this nor have I seen the movie. So wonderful to hear such great things about The Tale of Despereaux. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
~Jess
I haven't read the book yet- I still need to. We really enjoyed the movie!