Kate DiCamillo is the author of many popular books for young readers. She has received several awards including the Newbery Medal and the Theodor Geisel Medal. Perhaps one of her most well-known books is Because of Winn Dixie, which was also made into a movie.
Kate DiCamillo once said, “The smallest act of kindness can change the world.” Such a sense of hope and belief are often reflected in her books. Below are thoughts on two of her newer books this year, as well as an old favorite she wrote with a fellow author.
Ferris, by Kate DiCamillo
Suggested ages: 7-10 years
Ferris’s summer, before entering 5th grade, evolves into a memorable one! Pinkey, her younger sister, is determined to become an “outlaw.” Her Uncle Ted, now living in the basement, is engrossed in a self-imposed project of painting the history of the world. And Charisse, Ferris’s ailing grandmother, has seen a ghost whose command is to light the dining room chandelier with real candles. Ferris and her friend, Billy Jackson, wind their way through one challenge after another as they encounter the desires of Ferris’s quirky family.
DiCamillo fills her tale with humor and unexpected antics along with weaving in challenging vocabulary. Mrs. Mielk, Ferris, and Billy Jackson’s 4th grade teacher, presented her class with the “gift of words.” And so, words from ludicrous to bereft, are among the delightfully descriptive words which are interwoven into Ferris’s story of her summer.
Ferris is wise beyond her years, partly due to the wisdom which Charisse imparts to her granddaughter. The reader sees the world through Ferris’s forever questioning but honest eyes. Gradually, Ferris comes to the realization that there is magic in following one’s own tune and staying true to oneself whoever you may be. She discovers that “every story is a love story.” Ferris is a tender and uplifting gift to all, young and old alike.
Orris and Timble: The Beginning, by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Carmen Monk
Suggested ages: 3-7 years
“Make the good and noble choice!!” is imprinted on an old sardine can with which Orris, a rat, has adorned his cozy nest in an abandoned barn. Little did he think such words would foretell of events to come. One evening, a desperate call for help comes from a small white owl, Timble. His foot is caught in a rat trap. He is scared and helpless. Recalling Aesop’s tale, the Lion and the Mouse, and glancing over at his colorful tin can, Orris revs up his courage and goes to the rescue.
Orris is a gritty, practical fellow, but his tenderness wins out and a new friendship blooms. Perhaps this is truly “the beginning” and young readers will have more Orris and Timble tales to look forward to. The full-page illustrations are done in muted tones with the exception of the “Imperial Sardine Can,” shining with its wise words. Monk skillfully expresses Orris and Timble’s changing emotions as the story unfurls. Young readers will easily perceive this evolution of feelings by the pictures alone.
Bink and Gollie: Two for One, by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee, illustrated by Tony Fucile
Suggested ages: 4-7 years
Bink and Gollie are two irrepressible friends who have been part of the literary world for beginning readers for over 10 years. They are opposites in many ways, but are both energetic and ready to embark on new experiences which will bring forth smiles and giggles to all. Two for One takes place at the state fair where the two friends are there for each other as they each find themselves in unforeseen and embarrassing situations.
Fucile’s illustrations are laced with energy and humor. They carry the action along, supporting the limited text. A non-reader will find delight in Bink and Gollie’s adventures through pictures alone while the beginning reader will experience an added depth to these two friends’ stories.
Children’s Book Reviews are by Nancy Guist.