As many of you reading this review are regular patrons of the Logan County Public Library, you must have noticed a poster displayed in the library for several weeks advertising the new movie “The Tale of Despereaux”. After realizing that the movie was based on a children’s novel by popular author Kate DiCamillo, I followed one of my strictest rules--read it before you see it--and decided to give the book a try.

“The Tale of Despereaux” is the sweet story of a brave little mouse who, once shunned by his family and friends, finds love in a most unusual and unsuspecting mate. Because many will do anything for the sake of love, Despereaux ventures through his home castle on a quest to save his young, captured beloved. As the plot unfolds, you are introduced to several other characters including the mischievous rat, Chiaroscuro, the Princess Pea, and a dim-witted servant girl named Miggery Sow, each with their own tale of sorrow, insignificance, and self-discovery. In the end, each character finds his or her life intertwined with the life of another.

For those of you who enjoy a good children’s book every now and then, “The Tale of Despereaux” is a story you will not be able to put down. While it is airy and lighthearted, it also provides truth and reality of everyday life that is so often cruel and harsh. DiCamillo offers this wisdom with a certain sensitivity children are able to understand without being frightened of what life really has to offer. This book is great for all ages, adult and children alike. My only request is that you read it before you see it.