· The Tale of Despereaux written by Kate DiCamillo and illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
o Suggested Grade Level: 3rd-4th grade. This is a full chapter book with medium print and few pictures. While it has captivated readers of all ages, I believe that the content and vocabulary would be most appropriate for grades 3 and up.
o Summary: The Tale of Despereaux is the magical story of a unique little mouse name Despereaux. Despereaux is not like other mice. Despereaux was born with big ears and his eyes wide open. He loves music and books, and doesn’t enjoy scurrying. However, to his family, his greatest offense and biggest mistake was falling deeply in love with a human princess name Pea. When a special meeting of the Mouse Council is called for, Despereaux is sentenced to death in the dungeon. However, all is not lost. In the dungeon Despereaux meets the jailor, Gregory, and tells him a story. Because of this, Gregory decides to save Desperaux. Unfortunately, now the princess is in trouble. She has been deceived by her own servant Miggory Sow, who longs for someone to actually care about her. Even more sinister is the rat, Roscuro, whose own disgrace has led him to seek revenge on the Princess Pea and her father. Despereaux is called to summon up his courage and rescue the Princess. Will he succeed? I’m sorry, I cannot give the ending away. You must read it yourself.
o Classroom skills and strategies:
§ This book could be used to teach students to appreciate their differences, and the differences of others. The students can use their differences to serve a greater purpose, just like Despereaux did.
§ This book could also be used to teach symbolic language. In this book, light and dark symbolize good and bad.
o ESOL strategies/applications:
§ Reading logs: Students could be asked to choose one of the main characters (Despereaux, Pea, Roscuro, Mig) and write a diary entry from their perspective.
§ Compare and Contrast: Students could compare and contrast a number of elements in this book: Mig and Pea, Despereaux and Roscuro, Light and Darkeness, etc.
o Read aloud: Pages 20-25.
o Personal opinion: I will admit that after reading several of Ms. DiCamillo’s novels, I was not initially impressed with The Tale of Despereaux. However, after giving it another shot, I must say that I am completely taken with it. It is a truly encouraging story that will inspire readers of all ages. The illustrations done entirely in pencil are also quite impressive. Ms. DiCamillo adopts a “voice” in this novel that is fitting for the story she tells. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more of her work.
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