Kate DiCamillo

" This is the danger of loving: No matter how powerful you are, no matter how many kingdoms you rule, you cannot stop those you love from dying."

I was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, raised in Clermont, Florida, and currently live in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I write for both children and adults and I like to think of myself as a storyteller.

Here are a few more facts about me: I am short. And loud. I hate to cook and love to eat. I am single and childless, but I have lots of friends and I am an aunt to three lovely children (Luke, Roxanne, and Max) and one not so lovely dog (Henry).

I think of myself as an enormously lucky person: I get to tell stories for a living.

What age groups and genres does Kate DiCamillo write for?

She is best known for children's literature, including picture books, illustrated middle-grade novels, and early chapter books. She has also written for adult readers.

What are some of Kate DiCamillo's most popular books and series?

Notable titles and series include the Mercy Watson books, Because of Winn-Dixie, The Tale of Despereaux, Flora and Ulysses, Tales from Deckawoo Drive, and The Beatryce Prophecy.

What order should I read the Mercy Watson series in?

Read the Mercy Watson books in publication/series order, starting with Mercy Watson to the Rescue (book 1), then Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride (book 2), Mercy Watson Fights Crime (book 3), and continuing through the later titles.

Where should I start if I've never read Kate DiCamillo?

For middle-grade readers try Because of Winn-Dixie, The Tale of Despereaux, or Flora and Ulysses. For younger readers start with the Mercy Watson books or the Tales from Deckawoo Drive stories.

Does she write illustrated or picture books as well as novels?

Yes. Several of her works are illustrated or presented as picture books and illustrated middle-grade novels, such as Flora and Ulysses and many titles in the Mercy Watson and Deckawoo Drive collections.