Even though you may not recognize Kate DiCamillo's name, you've probably heard of her novel Because of Winn Dixie. It was turned into a pretty popular movie a while ago.
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane tells the story of a child's beloved china rabbit, that becomes lost. Edward changes hands several times and experiences life through the eyes of each of the children who subsequently own him. I read this book out loud to my 8- and 12-year-olds and in a couple of parts, I found myself too choked up to continue. Max said, "But it's not even sad!" I said, "But it's just so moving," to which he rolled his eyes in (I must admit) an admirably teenage way.
I read a review of this book on Amazon and the reviewer suggested that DiCamillo be brought up on child abuse charges for some of the sad situations Edward finds himself in. And although I laughed at that highly exaggerated reaction, the book is sad at times, even a little toward the brutal side of sad. You might want to skim it before reading it to your kids but this novel is such a rare combination--for children, and beautifully written--that I highly recommend giving it a shot, even if you don't have children. And if you like it, be sure to check out her prior novel, Despereaux, which is great too.
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To each his own, but I don't like sad. I like happy. If I want sadness and tragedy, I have CNN.
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