Plot:
The story centers around 10-year old India Opal Buloni and her move to a small Florida town with her preacher father. Winn-Dixie is the name Opal hastily gives to a stray dog who is running amok in a local supermarket and then takes the dog home as her own. Her loving father needs little convincing to keep the dog and all of the story then unfolds with Opal and Winn-Dixie basically inseparable. This alliance between girl and dog allows for the new friendships that develop between Opal and a shy and gentle guitar playing pet store clerk, a kind librarian, a misunderstood elderly lady, two rambunctious brothers and a small young girl named Sweetie Pea. Opal’s mother is gone and she never knew her and her father is somewhat withdrawn. As the summer unfolds, all of the friendships develop and Opal manages to bring all the characters together for an unforgettable garden party that leads to drama around Winn-Dixie.
Review/Personal thoughts:
It is no coincidence that this book has multiple awards and is on many recommended book lists. It is very well written and has well-developed characters who are all fascinating and believable. The book is entertaining with many humorous as well as heartfelt moments. Opal’s longing for the mother she never knew and her hope that she might one day return is evident throughout the story and ultimately provides the opportunity for Opal to come to grips with her loss and grow emotionally through process. Winn-Dixie will appeal to all animal lovers as he “smiles”, wags his tail, and seems to understand everything that Opal tells him. I felt good after reading this book and definitely recommend it for tweens.
Genre: Contemporary Realistic Fiction
Reading Level: 3.9 Interest level: Ages 8 to 12
Awards:
Newberry Medal/Honor Book, 2001
Notable/Best Books (A.L.A.) 01/19/01
Young Reader's Choice Award, 2003
Voice of Youth Award, 2001-2002 First Place
Friends of American Writers Juvenile Literature Award, 2001
California Young Reader Medal, 2003
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