The Tale of Despereaux

Newberry Medal Award Winner 2004

Citation:

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo.  (Candlewick Press, 2003). 272p. Fantasy Junior Book.

Summary:

Love and happily ever after are the motivation of a mouse that after being cast out of his community learns the importance of light and darkness.

Critique:

a.    The setting and symbolism of the story are the two elements that make this fantasy a timeless classic.

b.    The various settings of the story are initially introduced based on the character, and as the story progressed and the characters stories intertwine so do the settings which create an overall cohesive feeling for the story.  The symbolism was similar and included throughout the story for all characters that helped tie the stories together. 

c.    The dungeon, a setting where all characters fate were weaved together, concludes with Despereaux rescuing Princess Pea and Miggery Sow and saving Roscuro from himself.  Roscuro, a rat that lives in darkness as a way of life, discovers light and decides, “Suffering is not the answer.  Light is the answer” (p.105) which progresses the symbol of light and darkness from one character to the next.

Curriculum Connection:  

The Tale of Despereaux would be well received as a story when symbolism is being discussed.  The various symbols of character names, objects, and darkness and light continue throughout the story are prime examples of symbolism that students can study and identify.