Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

Here is one of the 2001 Honor Winners - Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

One summer day, Opal goes into a supermarket and comes out with a scraggly dog that she names Winn-Dixie. Because of Winn-Dixie, her preacher father finally tells her ten things about her absentee mother, and Opal makes lots of unusual friends in her quirky Florida town. And because of Winn-Dixie, Opal grows to learn that friendship -- and forgiveness -- can sneak up on you like a sudden storm.

It was a quick and easy read and an enjoyable one to boot. I read the condensed, movie version of the book and wish that I had gotten the original one. I guess that means I will have to keep my eye open at my favorite used books stores.

It is a story of love, friendship, forgiveness and just going that step further to help someone else instead of always yourself.