Thread: Edward Tulane (and kid-lit in general)

First, if anybody is put off by children's novels or children's film, please consider this. Children have less experience guiding their opinions (as a matter of age), and so are less critical of what they see. This means that writers and studios can get away with gross negligence of the craft and turn a quick buck with flash. But, this certainly doesn't mean that amid all the trash there aren't deep, meaningful, provocative and insightful books/films out there for kids.

I have a whole list on reserve of books and films targeted for children which I believe to be great works of literature. But, to open the thread, just one.

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane - by Kate Dicamillo

This is the story of a china-doll rabbit named Edward. A selfish and pompous thing living with a rich family on "Egypt Street." Because he's a doll he cannot move or speak. He can only observe and think. When he is lost by Abilene (the little girl who "loves him almost as much as Edward loves himself") he goes through a series of difficult and heart-rending stages as he passes from owner to owner over the years, learning about loss, longing, suffering, death, and ultimately learning to love another more than himself.

It's an amazing story of transformation. I teach a group of kids at the target age (10-13-ish) but I don't think I can ever teach this book again, because I can't even recall the story without getting foggy-eyed and choked up! One of the best books I've ever read, and it can be finished in an evening.

That's definately going on my reading list. I love good childrens books, I have a nice hardbound collection going- that sounds like a possible (very likely) addition. Like the Velveteen Rabbit meets... something.

I'd recommend it to anybody and everybody. It's very nicely illustrated too (an illustration every five or ten pages I think).