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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.

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.

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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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Our Members Say

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  • What did you think about Because of Winn-Dixie?
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See all 33 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    Lives in Massachusetts
    I rate this title on for age 7 and give it 5.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Positive messages
    • Good role models

    AWSOME

    This is one of my favorite books of all time and i totally recomend it to anyone who loves a good read.It is almost as good as Twilight and thats hard to do.

  2. 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

  3. 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.

  4. I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 1.0

    Eh... OK

  5. Kid Reviewer Age 10
    I rate this title on for age 9 and give it 5.0

    i need to read chapter 6-10

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