Flora And Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo is a charming and whimsical tale that blends humor and heart. Reviewers praise its engaging characters and imaginative narrative. The novel's unique combination of prose and illustrated sequences is particularly appreciated. Some criticism includes occasional pacing issues and predictability. Overall, it's a delightful read for younger audiences.

A reader who enjoys quirky, endearing characters and heartwarming adventures will love Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo. Fans of The Tale of Despereaux and Charlotte's Web will appreciate its charming blend of humor and poignancy, perfect for middle-grade readers seeking magical, thought-provoking stories.

In Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo, young Flora Belle Buckman saves a squirrel, Ulysses, who gains superpowers after being vacuumed by a powerful machine. Flora, believing Ulysses to be a superhero, hides him from her skeptical mother, finding friendship and adventure along the way. The novel explores themes of family, friendship, and believing in the impossible. A child's strained relationship with a parent is depicted.

Humorous / Heartwarming / Fantastical / Emotional / Playful

- Flora and Ulysses won the 2014 Newbery Medal, which is awarded annually to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.
- The book is inspired by a real-life incident when Kate DiCamillo's friend accidentally vacuumed up a squirrel, sparking the idea for the story.
- Illustrator K.G. Campbell brings a unique touch to the book, featuring a series of comic-style drawings that complement the narrative and add a visual element to the storytelling.

**Flora Belle Buckman**  
A ten-year-old girl who loves comic books and superheroes, Flora is both a cynic and a resourceful problem-solver whose life changes after she meets Ulysses, the squirrel.

**Ulysses**  
Originally an ordinary squirrel, Ulysses gains superhero abilities, including super strength and flight, after a peculiar incident with a vacuum cleaner, forming a special bond with Flora.

**Flora’s Father (George Buckman)**  
A gentle and loving man who is deeply affected by his divorce, George shares a special connection with Flora through their mutual love for comic books.

**Flora’s Mother (Phyllis Buckman)**  
A romance novel writer who struggles to connect with Flora, her skepticism about Ulysses leads to tension with her daughter.

**William Spiver**  
Tootie's great nephew who claims to be temporarily blind and develops a friendship with Flora, sharing common feelings of being outcasts.

**Dr. Meescham**  
A philosophical doctor who offers wisdom and guidance, helping Flora understand her family dynamics and the broader possibilities of the world.

**Tootie Tickham**  
Flora’s adventurous neighbor who accidentally transforms Ulysses into a superhero, supporting Flora in discovering and protecting Ulysses's powers.

Kate DiCamillo

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Before You Read

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Overview

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Flora And Ulysses Summary and Study Guide

Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 21

Flora And Ulysses Prologue-Chapter 21 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 22-36

Flora And Ulysses Chapters 22-36 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 37-51

Flora And Ulysses Chapters 37-51 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 52-68

Flora And Ulysses Chapters 52-68 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Flora And Ulysses Character Analysis

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Themes

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Important Quotes

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Introduction

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Before Reading

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During Reading

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After Reading

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Flora And Ulysses

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