Because of Winn-Dixie

Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

Winn-Dixie was a dog causing a ruckus in the Winn-Dixie grocery store that was adopted by the narrator of the book. The girl was living in a poor southern neighborhood with her father (who she usually refers to as "the Preacher".) Her mother had left the family earlier. She meets many people in the community and befriends many of the "oddballs". She learns many of their backstories and gains respect for them. Inspired by Gone with the Wind, they decide to hold a big outdoor party with everyone invited (even her "enemies"). It seems to go well, but then a thunderstorm hits. They go for cover, but lose track of the dog. After trying to find the dog, they find out the dog had never left. They all learn that nobody is perfect and understanding can go a long way.

Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig

Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig by Kate DiCamillo and Chris Van Dusen

The two ladies next door plant some flowers. The pig, Mercy Watson, smells them and decides to have a feast. This angers one of the ladies, who calls animal control, who sets out to find the pig. Meanwhile, Mercy is invited to a tea party with some neighborhood kids. She is excited with the chance of food. However, it turns out it is imaginary and she wants out. The animal control officer tries to find the pig by looking in a tree. She sees the tea party and jumps down to get the pig (bomping her head in the process.) There is some screaming. The family hears the pig and is excited to find her. Everyone then meets together to eat toast.

The story is divided into chapters, but is a quick read. The illustrations are great and match the quirky sense of humor of the writing. The characters have a naive sensibility and know their role and seek the best with each other.