“The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane”
by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline.
Candlewick, Press, Cambridge, Mass., 2006, 200 pages, Grades 3-5. First reviewed 10/19/2009.
In animal fantasy, characters can assume human qualities. Through identifying with the animal characters in the story, children can safely come into contact with a wide range of experiences. This provides a security that allows younger children to encounter events that might be difficult to otherwise understand.
In this tender story, Kate DiCamillo writes movingly of trials and joys of learning the meaning of life, and the power of love.
Edward Tulane is a beautiful, soft, toy rabbit. His face is made of fine china. Sitting in his chair at the Tulane family table, he cuts a fine figure. The daughter, Abilene Tulane, dresses him in fine silk suits and gives him dress hats. More than anything, Abilene deeply loves Edward. She holds him close to her heart at night before tucking Edward into bed. Edward tolerates the love of Abilene, but really doesn’t want it. Mostly Edward loves himself and his fine clothes. He likes seeing his reflection and is quite vain about his beauty. Of all his many fine things, Edward is most proud of the gold pocket watch given him by Abilene.
One night, Abilene tells Edward how much she loves him. Again, Edward merely tolerates the girl. A curious incident then happens. Abilene’s grandmother, Pelligrina, looks straight into his striking eyes and tells him: “You disappoint me.” However, Edward is unconcerned about the old woman.
The next day the family leaves on an ocean liner for Europe. On the trip an accident happens and Edward is thrown into the sea. He sinks to the bottom of the sea and lies in the mud. After a time he is swept up by a fisherman and taken to land. The wife of the fisherman treats Edward with the affection she held for her deceased child. Though still self-centered, Edward begins listening to the older couple.
But during a visit by her daughter, the wife tries to deceive the younger woman about her feelings toward Edward. Seeing through the fraud, the daughter cruelly throws Edward into the trash. With his clothes ruined, and his body broken up, the rabbit starts trying to understand life. After a series of adventures, a young boy named Bryce finds Edward and takes the bunny home to his sick sister Sarah Ruth. The young girl is very ill and holds Edward close. After a while, Edward finds that his heart is stirring with love.
The action picks up. How does Bryce stand up for Edward? What does it cost him? Why does Edward learn to dance? How is the rabbit shattered and then put back together? Does Edward learn to love? Why is the gold pocket watch so important?
Could you be selfless when faced with difficult situations? Why can opening your heart lead a person to both pain and love? Why is this so necessary? What finally happens to Edward? To find out, go to the library and check out "The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane" by Kate DiCamillo.
This novel has won a number of literary awards. Kate DiCamillo is a well-known writer in the field of children’s literature. The book touches on many themes central to human existence. These experiences are described in a number of poignant scenes. Readers will realize that Edward’s journey is their own journey. The touching conclusion shows the greatness of Edward’s choice. I hope you go to the library and check out this graceful book. It stirred my heart, and I hope it moves you as well. Enjoy!
