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The Tale of Despereaux

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2003

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Book Brief

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Kate DiCamillo

The Tale of Despereaux

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

267

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kingdom Of Dor • Medieval

Topic
Publication Year

2003

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

670L

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Super Short Summary

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo follows the adventures of Despereaux, an unusually small mouse who loves light and stories, as he navigates the challenges of being different in the Kingdom of Dor. Sentenced to the dungeon by the Mouse Council, he must rescue Princess Pea from the plotting rat Roscuro and servant Miggery Sow, confronting darkness with courage and compassion.

Adventurous

Heartwarming

Mysterious

Emotional

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.4

210,379 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo is a whimsical and heartwarming tale praised for its rich storytelling and unique characters. Readers appreciate its themes of courage and redemption. However, some find its shifts in perspective and darker elements less suitable for younger children. Overall, it captivates with its imaginative narrative and moral depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Tale of Despereaux?

Readers who enjoy whimsical, heartwarming tales with themes of bravery and friendship, akin to Charlotte's Web by E.B. White or The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary, will be captivated by The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo. Fans of charming animal protagonists and richly woven stories for middle graders will find it delightful.

4.4

210,379 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

267

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kingdom Of Dor • Medieval

Topic
Publication Year

2003

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

670L

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