The novel Because of Winn-Dixie By Kate DiCamillo is a realistic fiction novel that encompasses the life of Opal, a young girl who moves to Naomi, Florida with her father. I chose to read this novel because Opal’s story is relatable for young children and adults. It embraces sorrow, friendship, love, hope, and humor. According to Betsy Groban of the New York Times this novel is “a poignant and delicately told story”. DiCamillo is able to skillfully write a piece that triggers emotions in all readers. Once Opal adopts Winn-Dixie she learns how to love again and re-evaluates her life. She opens herself to new experiences and developing relationships with people of all ages.

 The reader quickly learns that Opal’s father, The Preacher, is a single parent of a very unique and loving girl. Since Opal is new to Naomi and lonely she is desperate for companionship. Her first friend in her new home is Winn-Dixie. Winn-Dixie is similar to Opal because he “couldn’t stand to be left alone” like Opal could never get over her mother leaving. Winn-Dixie helps open Opal up into meeting new people and willingly create friendships without judging. 

Every day during Opal’s first summer in Naomi was an interesting one. She and Winn-Dixie befriended Otis from Getrude’s Pets, Miss Franny from the library, and Gloria Dump who is visually impaired. Through these individuals Opal learns their stories and the sorrow they experienced. Otis is an ex-convict who only has his animals to share his love of music with. Miss Franny told her story of Littmus loosing his family in a fire, and Gloria shares her battle with alcoholic.  Gloria also shares with Opal the drowning of Amanda’s brother. Carson.

The combination of these friendships, moving to Naomi, and coming of age Opal is willing and able to tackle her past. In the beginning of the novel, the reader meets a young naive girl who focuses on her mother not being present in her life. She is unable to get past not having a mother and just a father. Opal has the preacher make a list of 10 things about her mother just so she can feel close to her. As the novel progresses, Opal encounters new people, such as Gloria who helps her accept the absence of her mother. Gloria also helps Opal learn how to feel connected to her mother even though she isn’t present.  For instance, Opal’s mother liked to plant and later in the novel Gloria helps Opal plant a tree. Finally, at the end of the novel the reader is able to see the acceptance, happiness, and openness that Opal had been searching for all because of one stray dog…