Because of Winn-Dixie discussion

Because of Winn Dixie

This book was one of my favorites as a middle schooler- and after reading it again I can say that it has returned to my favorites list. Because of Winn-Dixie tells the story of a little girl and her dog, and their summer in a town with not too much to do. Opal and her dad moved to this Florida town so that her dad could preach at the local church. Opal spends her summer missing her mother, but meeting new friends in unlikely places. Her summer perks up with the help of Winn Dixie the dog, the local witch and a few other members of the town. This book once again showed me that friendship can blossom from where you least expect it, and that I need to appreciate the simple things in life.

In a classroom setting, I would probably share this book to give student's a different perspective on life. In a world where students, including myself, are engrossed in pop culture and social media, I would hope that this book would impact students to think of personal relationships as fulfilling, and to be grateful for the friends and family that they have. This book is especially great in a middle grades classroom because the protagonist is a younger girl dealing with the pressures of school that often arise in middle grades. I would pair this book with other books that focus on building relationships, making friends, and dealing with bullies and peer pressure.

Ruby Holler

Dallas and Florida have never truly felt at home, and have been rejected from different foster families throughout the years. They finally come to understand the warmth and compassion that comes with the idea of"home" when they find their way to Ruby Holler, a lush green part of the world where Tiller and Sairy take them in. This book has a little bit of everything- mystery, crime and adventure and is a heart warming tale of two orphans who find their home.

Ruby Holler would be a great addition to the reading list in a middle grades classroom. It offers a unique perspective, a view from two kids who have never felt as if they belonged. This novel could remind kids of the things in their life that they are thankful for, and to see that not everyone's life and upbringing are the same. If student's enjoy this book, I might recommend The Series of Unfortunate Events. Although a different tone, it is series about children with a similar situation, and some sneaky crimes and mysteries that they are involved in.