Review: Because of Winn-Dixie












“My name is India Opal Buloni, and last summer my daddy, the preacher, sent me to the store for a box of macaroni-and-cheese, some white rice, and two tomatoes and I came back with a dog.” These words start a brand new life experience for a ten-year-old girl, Opal, and a shaggy, goofy dog. This book has many themes and lessons to learn form. It’s a book that’ll make you laugh-out-loud and most definitely smile to yourself from time-to-time. Because of Winn-Dixie, written by Kate DiCamillo, is a naturally amazing story and should be read by everyone.


Both the plot and theme of the story are very heartwarming and inspiring. Opal was abandoned by her mother when she was three and her father is the new preacher for the Open Arms Baptist Church of Naomi, where they recently moved to, and is all about preaching 24/7. Throughout the book the general theme, I think, is that: 'Friends and family are VERY important.' For example, some parts in the story show how, at moments, Opal had and didn't have support of family and friends and how, in the two different stages, her life changed. It is very important to have that love and support of friends and family around you all the time because it will make everything better for you.


Additionally, the move and loneliness makes Opal only miss and crave her mother more. Opal wants to figure out and know more about her mother but her father gets very sensitive around that subject. He mostly hesitates to answer questions and talk about his wife because he also misses her dearly and gets sad just thinking about what has happened. It’s a struggle for both Opal and her father. Meanwhile, now with Winn-Dixie by her side she begins to meet a range of people in her community.


As summer goes on, Opal builds a number of friendships with people of all ages and types. She is also able to get her father to open up more about her mother and how she was. Opal ends the summer not as lonely anymore, more confident, and more happy about her life and how it’s changed. The book Because of Winn-Dixie is a great, funny story and, in my opinion, one of Kate DiCamillo’s best! It is, without a doubt, an unforgettable story.


If I were to rate the story I would give it: 4 ½ Stars. I would recommend it to anyone and everyone of any age! It’s a great story to read and tell to all of your friends! The mood throughout the book is very uplifting and humorous. I LIKED everything about it!


In conclusion, Because of Winn-Dixie is a very enchanting book and should be shared to everyone all around the world! I did not dislike anything about it and learned many things from it. The writing style is normal and very easy to read! The voice of Opal throughout the book was brilliant and so realatable. Because of Winn-Dixie is MY favorite book and truly a wonderful story!