Because of Winn-Dixie Realistic Fiction Booktalk Week 6

 

DiCamillo, K. (2000). Because of Winn-Dixie. Cambridge, Mass: Candlewick Press.

Other titles: The Magician’s Elephant, The Tale of Despereaux, The Tiger Rising

Genre: Realistic Fiction (Recommended Grade Level: 4^th)

“Dad, can I keep him? Can I keep him, please?” These could be the exact questions you eagerly ask your dad after you race home from the supermarket with your favorite....dog!  Of course, that’s not what Opal’s father expected her to find in the produce aisle at the local Winn-Dixie supermarket.  However, he reluctantly agreed that Opal could keep her shaggy friend. That’s exactly what Opal needed, a friend.  Opal was new to Naomi, Florida and did not make friends as easily as her pal, Winn-Dixie. Because of Winn-Dixie, Opal was able to make new friends like the wise and insightful Gloria Dump.  With Winn-Dixie by her side, will Opal’s feelings of loneliness disappear?

I would greatly recommend this realistic fiction story to others. Together, Opal and Winn-Dixie make a great pair. Although a little crazy at times, especially when a thunderstorm arises, Winn-Dixie is a compassionate dog, as seen in the way he chased a mouse around the church and gave it to Opal’s father unharmed. Through their unique bond, Winn-Dixie is able to teach Opal to look for the good in others. She was able to forgive Stevie for laughing at her choice of friends and places of interest and even invite him to a party at Gloria Dump’s house.