The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

Last night I read the amazing new book by Kate DiCamillo, author of Because of Winn-Dixie and others, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. Now, DiCamillo is a children's author and this is billed as a children's book, but really, I believe this is a powerful love story for readers of all ages. The book, very appropriately, came out on Valentine's Day, and it explores the importance of loving and being loved.

Edward Tulane is a china rabbit who belongs to a little girl named Abilene. He was made in France of the finest materials, has a whole trunk of exquisite clothes, and is very vain. Abilene loves Edward with all her heart, but Edward is not really interested in being loved or interested in the things around him. He is only interested in himself. One night, Abilene's grandmother tells the story of a princess who loves no one but herself and the story sticks with Edward for the rest of his "life".

Abilene and her family, including Edward, leave on a journey and Edward is lost. Thus begins Edward's journey through America and his spiritual growth. As Edward is handed off from family to family through the years, he learns to understand what it is to be loved and how to love others.

I always eagerly await new novels by Kate DiCamillo because she is such a wonderful storyteller, and really brings something special to children's literature. This one may be her best yet. The writing and the sentiments are so beautiful!

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