The Tale of Despereaux

Written by Kate DiCamillo · Illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering

A mouse, a rat, and a girl embark on a journey of light and destiny.

5.9/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 218,159 ratings

272 pages· 32,226 words· Est. 3.5 hour read· 670L

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Bookroo's summary

Despereaux, a mouse enchanted by music and a princess, Roscuro, a rat yearning for light, and Miggery Sow, a girl with an impossible wish, are drawn together. Their paths lead from a dark dungeon to a shining castle, intertwining their fates. What destiny awaits them in this tale of courage and longing?

From the publisher

A brave mouse, a covetous rat, a wishful serving girl, and a princess named Pea come together in Kate DiCamillo’s Newbery Medal–winning tale.

Welcome to the story of Despereaux Tilling, a mouse who is in love with music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It is also the story of a rat called Roscuro, who lives in the darkness and covets a world filled with light. And it is the story of Miggery Sow, a slow-witted serving girl who harbors a simple, impossible wish. These three characters are about to embark on a journey that will lead them down into a horrible dungeon, up into a glittering castle, and, ultimately, into each other’s lives. What happens then? As Kate DiCamillo would say: Reader, it is your destiny to find out.

With black-and-white illustrations and a refreshed cover by Timothy Basil Ering.

Awards

Newbery Medal (2004)

At a glance

Format
Pages: 272
Words: 32,226
Reading age: 9–12
Audience: Middle Grade
Lexile: 670L

Themes & topics

Books about journeys and voyages Books about making friends Books about animals Books about princesses Books about mice

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.9

out of 7

6.0

“The Tale of Despereaux" is a well-loved favorite, and for good reason! Kate DiCamillo is a wonderful author, and I loved this book and "Because of Winn-Dixie" growing up. This is a tale of love, adventure, and forgiveness that you'll want to read again and again!”

B is for Bookworm

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