Because of Winn Dixie

As with many other stories, I first discovered this one by watching the movie. I did not even know the book existed until a while after I had already watched the movie. The first thing that strikes me in this novel is Opal's compassion from the very beginning. When she discovers this scruffy stray dog that is bound for the pound, she claims the dog as hers and names him Winn Dixie. Winn Dixie becomes friends with everyone he encounters, which in turn encourages Opal to befriend the people as well. Through these relationships with older adults and peers, Opal gains wisdom and the different points of view of life while growing emotionally as well. I feel as if I can relate to Opal quite a lot. I have found that I have many friends that are much older than me too. They are full of wisdom and are great to go to for advice. I have learned so much and have matured so much as a person just by having older friends. I can also relate to her wanting to save the dog from the pound. I think I would have done the same thing! I hate to see poor animals suffer.