Because of Because of Winn Dixie,

Twenty some years ago Jennifer gave me a copy of Because of Winn Dixie. It was just what I needed and it had a profound effect on me. I re-read it again recently and at the prompting of my critique group wrote the author,Kate DiCamillo, this letter to show my appreciation.

Dear Ms. DiCamillo,

I wanted to personally thank you for the gift you gave me 24 years ago and the gift you gave me again recently.

Reading was a struggle for me in school. Like many children, I struggled with dyslexia. I loved books but it was difficult to make myself read for pleasure. This challenge stayed through adulthood. When I read Because of Winn-Dixie, that all changed. That beautiful, simple, profound, magical story inspired me to read for pleasure. Thank you for giving me the gift of reading! I read everyday now.

Like many readers, I thought about writing, but negative voices in my head dissuaded me. Do you ever hear those negative voices? I bet you do. I know the characters in your wonderful books do. I love how they rise above: Despereaux, Opal, Edward, Flora, Beatryce and so many others. They learned to ignore those gloomy voices and find their own voice. Your powerful books and inspiring characters have helped me find my voice. Now I write everyday too. It’s hard for me to call myself a writer but your stories have helped me be brave and do it anyway.

Thank you!

To write is to dream on paper. Because of you I am a reader, a writer and a dreamer.

I recently re-read Because of Winn Dixie. I believe if a book changed you it’s worth re-rereading to see how it speaks to you again, and do you know what? That book is as magical as ever. I mentioned to my critique group how much the book meant to be then and now. They encouraged me to write to you. Good friends are like that.

I need encouragement, we all do. Your books encourage me. Thanks for inspiring me, lending me courage and giving me dreams through your words.

Your fan,

Darrin