The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo is a whimsical and heartwarming tale praised for its rich storytelling and unique characters. Readers appreciate its themes of courage and redemption. However, some find its shifts in perspective and darker elements less suitable for younger children. Overall, it captivates with its imaginative narrative and moral depth.

Readers who enjoy whimsical, heartwarming tales with themes of bravery and friendship, akin to Charlotte's Web by E.B. White or The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary, will be captivated by The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo. Fans of charming animal protagonists and richly woven stories for middle graders will find it delightful.

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo follows the adventures of Despereaux, an unusually small mouse who loves light and stories, as he navigates the challenges of being different in the Kingdom of Dor. Sentenced to the dungeon by the Mouse Council, he must rescue Princess Pea from the plotting rat Roscuro and servant Miggery Sow, confronting darkness with courage and compassion.

Adventurous / Heartwarming / Mysterious / Emotional / Inspirational

- Kate DiCamillo won the prestigious Newbery Medal for The Tale of Despereaux in 2004, an award given annually to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.
- The inspiration for the main character, Despereaux Tilling, came from a request by DiCamillo’s friend's son, who wanted a story about an unlikely hero with "exceptionally large ears."

**Despereaux Tilling**  
The youngest and smallest mouse of the Tilling family, known for his large ears and interest in humans, especially drawn to Princess Pea. He embarks on a quest driven by courage and love.

**Princess Pea**  
The 12-year-old heir to the Kingdom of Dor, characterized by her empathy and kindness, who forms a bond with Despereaux. She plays a pivotal role in the kingdom's dynamics.

**Roscuro (Chiaroscuro)**  
A rat fascinated by light yet condemned to darkness, whose conflicting nature sets in motion significant events in the story. His full name reflects a balance of darkness and light.

**Miggery Sow**  
A girl with dreams of royalty who faces numerous hardships throughout her life. Her involvement with the main plot underscores her longing for love and recognition.

**Botticelli Remorso**  
An archetypical rat notorious for his obsession with misery and suffering. Known for his cunning nature and serves as Roscuro's only friend, guiding Despereaux during a crucial scene.

**Gregory the Jailer**  
The longtime jailer of the castle dungeon, capable of navigating its dark maze. His interaction with Despereaux is influenced by his memories of the kingdom's past.

**Hovis the Threadmaster**  
Responsible for the "red thread of death" used on condemned mice. He assists Despereaux with tools for his quest and shares an appreciation for fairy tales.

**Antoinette Tilling**  
Despereaux's dramatic French mother who expresses disappointment with her offspring. Her actions during Despereaux's trial are more theatrical than sincere.

**Lester Tilling**  
Despereaux’s father, initially ashamed of his son and participates in his trial. He later regrets his lack of support and seeks forgiveness.

Kate DiCamillo

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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The Tale of Despereaux Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Book the First: A Mouse Is Born”

Part 1, Chapters 1-15

The Tale of Despereaux Part 1, Chapters 1-15 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Book the Second: Chiaroscuro”

Part 2, Chapters 16-23

The Tale of Despereaux Part 2, Chapters 16-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Book the Third: Gor! The Tale of Miggery Sow”

Part 3, Chapters 24-33

The Tale of Despereaux Part 3, Chapters 24-33 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Book the Fourth: Recalled to the Light”

Part 4, Chapters 34-52

The Tale of Despereaux Part 4, Chapters 34-52 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Tale of Despereaux Character Analysis

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Themes

The Tale of Despereaux Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Tale of Despereaux Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Tale of Despereaux Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Tale of Despereaux Essay Topics

The Tale of Despereaux Teaching Unit

Introduction

The Tale of Despereaux Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

The Tale of Despereaux Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

The Tale of Despereaux Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

The Tale of Despereaux Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

The Tale of Despereaux Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

The Tale of Despereaux Activities

Essay Questions

The Tale of Despereaux Essay Questions

Exam Questions

The Tale of Despereaux Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

The Tale of Despereaux Exam Answer Key

The Tale of Despereaux

Before You Read

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