This is my new favorite book of all time! This week has been so stressful and with fall break all I have been thinking about is just getting out of town. However as soon as I began to read this book I found my peace within this hectic week. I couldn't put it down but the closer I got to finishing I got sad because I didn't want it to end. Opal is such a sweet character and as a reader I became her. The best part of this book is the fellowship that eventually happens in this small town. It is so moving to see how one lonely little girl can bring out the best in so many different types of people. By the end of the book I was smiling from ear to ear as all of her new friends finally were together and singing songs. Opal may never meet her mother and I love how because of Winn-Dixie running away, or so they thought, the two of them were able to reunite on a deeper level or understanding. This dog changed Opal's life that summer and mine too. The author does an excellent job of keeping you hooked and making it such an easy read.