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Because of Winn-Dixie

(2000, Fiction - Friendship, Written by Kate DiCamillo)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 7, age appropriate for kids over 9; suggested age 9.
  • Is it any good?

    5.0
  • Common Sense says

    This poignant novel is one of the best around.

updated 07.04.08

Why We Rated This on for Ages 9 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Not an issue.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence :

    India is dealing with her mother's abandonment.
  • Sex :

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Because of Winn-Dixie

Parents need to know that there's not much plot, but this gentle character story, simply told, is as engrossing and sweet as they come. In simple, lyrical language, India learns not to judge others on first impressions, and to make friends by opening herself to others.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about first impressions. How do Opal's opinions of the new people in her life change through the course of the story? Families can also talk about pets. Why do you think it's easier for Opal to befriend a dog than other people? How does her friendship with Winn-Dixie change her other relationships? If you have a pet, do you consider your pet to be a friend?
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  • What did you think about Because of Winn-Dixie?
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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Kid Reviewer
    Age 12
    Lives in New Jersey
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 1.0

    the bad bad tin

    onec a pound a time the end

  2. Teen Reviewer
    Age 14
    Lives in Wisconsin
    I rate this title on for age 8 and give it 3.0

    Eh... OK

    I thought it was a cute story, I used to LOVE it when I was younger, but now.. I guess I just grew out of it. Kate DiCamillo portrayed WInn Dixie very well, reminded me greatly of my past puppy dog.

  3. Teen Reviewer
    Age 14
    Lives in Wisconsin
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 1.0

    Eh... OK

  4. Kid Reviewer
    Age 10
    Anonymous
    Lives in
    I rate this title on for age 9 and give it 5.0

    i need to read chapter 6-10

  5. Kid Reviewer
    Age 10
    Lives in Maine
    I rate this title on for age 8 and give it 4.0

    Great Story!

    Another great book by Kate. She is a really talented author I think.Her two other books I read The Tiger Rising and The Tale of Desperauex are also good books. I recomend this book for everyone.

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