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."
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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“It is simply not in the nature of a hero to be afraid.”
The Tale of Despereaux
By Kate DiCamillo
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
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.
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