The Tale of Despereaux

In 'The Tale of Despereaux,' a brave little mouse named Despereaux embarks on an extraordinary adventure. He defies the boundaries of his kind by falling in love with a beautiful princess, leading him into a world filled with darkness and danger. Along the way, he encounters a variety of unforgettable characters, including a villainous rat and a serving girl with dreams of her own. This enchanting tale weaves themes of bravery, love, and forgiveness, challenging the notion of what it means to be a hero. Will Despereaux’s courage be enough to bring light to the shadows that threaten his world?

By Kate DiCamillo

Published: 2015

"It is simply not in the nature of a hero to be afraid."

The Tale of DespereauxBook binding

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A brave mouse, a covetous rat, a wishful serving girl, and a princess named Pea come together in Kate DiCamillo's Newbery Medal–winning tale. 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. With black-and-white illustrations and a refreshed cover by Timothy Basil Ering.

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About the Author

K

Kate DiCamillo

Kate DiCamillo is a renowned American author celebrated for her contributions to children's literature. She has written several beloved books, including the Newbery Medal winners 'Because of Winn-Dixie' and 'The Tale of Despereaux,' as well as 'Flora & Ulysses' which won the 2014 Newbery Medal. DiCamillo's writing style is characterized by its emotional depth, whimsical storytelling, and a strong sense of hope and resilience. Her works often explore themes of friendship, family, and the power of connection. With her evocative prose and memorable characters, DiCamillo has earned a special place in the hearts of readers of all ages.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Kate DiCamillo
Published
December 2015
Publisher
National Geographic Books
ISBN
0763680893
Language
English
Pages
N/A
Genres
Adventure FictionFiction

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It is simply not in the nature of a hero to be afraid.

The Tale of Despereaux

By Kate DiCamillo

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