I am sure you have heard of this title, if only because of the massive amounts of movie advertising. I have not seen the movie yet, but I have read the book and I have no doubt that it is better than the movie (they usually are). Not to seem snobbish, but there are so many subtle things that are conveyed in literature that just aren’t in movies, especially a film for kids. All that to say: read the book!
Essentially, The Tale of Despereaux is about a mouse who is in love with a princess; as well as about some soup and a spool of thread. The mouse, Despereaux, is an outcast among his mouse community because he was born with his eyes open, has extra large ears, reads, and loves to explore rather than nibble. He just isn’t mouse enough. Despereaux dreams of life larger than himself and wishes to win the heart of the princess.
Of course, any story that has a hero must also have a nemesis. The antagonist is a rat who loves to see people suffer, loves to steal and is an all-around nasty rat. After Despereaux gets thrown into the dungeon, he meets up with the rat and learns how to become the hero he has always dreamed.
What I love most about this story is how the author, Kate DiCamillo, addresses the reader. DiCamillo defines words, explains situations and utilizes the reader to help move the plot along. For example, when Despereaux is led to the dungeon, his mother comes and bids him adieu and DiCamillo explains:
“Do you know the definition of adieu? Don’t bother with your dictionary. I will tell you. Adieu is the French word for Farewell. ‘Farewell’ is not the word that you would like to hear from you mother as you are being led to the dungeon by two oversize mice in black hoods. Words that you would like to hear are ‘Take me instead. I will go to the dungeon in my son’s place.’… But reader there is no comfort in the word ‘farewell,’ even if you say it in French. ‘Farewell’ is a word that, in any language is full of sorrow. It is a word that promises absolutely nothing.”
Have no fear, Despereaux manages to get out of the dungeon and then goes on to save the kingdom. There is sorrow and joy, justice and mercy, lessons learned, and celebrations of self-discovery. It is just the sort of fairy-tale that both kids and parents enjoy.