Because of Winn-Dixie [2005 film]

The heartwarming "tail" of a young girl whose life is changed by a scruffy, fun-loving pooch she names Winn-Dixie. The special bond between them works magic on her reserved dad and the eccentric townspeople they meet during one unforgettable summer.

Substance: Feel-good story about grade-school girl who makes friends because of "adopting" a lovable mutt. Suitable for 9-12 year olds but may not interest older teens ages (adults will enjoy the nostalgia).
Style: Good production, but fairly superficial story-line.

Because of Winn-Dixie is a great read for girls that love story's about dogs. A little girl name Opal and her father which is a preacher that moves to a small town in Florida. Winn Dixie is a name of scruffy stray dog which she becomes the owner of. Thanks to Winn-Dixie's easygoing nature, he manages to introduce Opal to new friends. She realizes that her mom isn't coming back, but she has a father who loves her, friends who love her, potential friends to love her, and she'll be okay. This is a heart warming story that is a must read!

When a little girl named Opal and her preacher father move to a small southern town, she adopts a fun-loving pooch named Winn-Dixie. The special bond between them works magic on her Dad and the eccentric townspeople they meet during one unforgettable summer.

Opal and her preacher father move to small town in Florida. There she becomes the owner of a scruffy stray dog she names Winn Dixie. Opal and Winn Dixie become very close, and their bond works magic with other townspeople they grow to know. Rated PG 106 minutes

Independent Reading Level: Grade 3-4
Awards: John Newbery Medal (2001)

great book to show students about accepting animals.