Summary
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane is a 2006 children's novel by Kate DiCamillo. This poignant tale follows the adventures of a china rabbit named Edward as he learns the true meaning of love and compassion. DiCamillo's masterful storytelling has drawn comparisons to Hans Christian Andersen's work, particularly “The Steadfast Tin Soldier." Winner of the 2006 Boston Globe-Horn Book Award for children's fiction and a Parents' Choice Award, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane has also been recognized by the National Education Association as one of the Teachers' Top 100 Books for Children.
Plot
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane opens in the 1930s with Edward, a china rabbit who lives a pampered life with his adoring owner, 10-year-old Abilene. Edward's existence is supported by luxury and vanity until a fateful vacation aboard the Queen Mary. During the trip, Edward falls overboard and spends nearly 300 days at the bottom of the ocean.
Edward's journey truly begins when he's fished out of the sea by a fisherman. From there, he passes through various hands, each new owner bringing a unique experience to Edward's life. He spends time with the fisherman's wife, who dresses him like a girl doll, and later finds himself in the company of a hobo and his loyal dog.
As Edward continues his travels, he encounters a young girl suffering from tuberculosis and her brother. These experiences gradually transform Edward from a self-centered rabbit into a more compassionate being. However, his journey takes a harsh turn when he's violently broken and ends up in a doll shop for several years.
In a twist of fate, Edward is eventually purchased by a grown-up Abilene, his original owner. Now married with a daughter of her own, Abilene reunites with Edward, bringing his miraculous journey full circle. Through his adventures, Edward learns valuable lessons about love, loss, and the importance of opening one's heart to others.
Themes
Love and its transformative power
Journey of self-discovery
Overcoming selfishness and vanity
Resilience in the face of adversity
Importance of human connections
Loss and recovery
Growth through diverse experiences
Setting
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane is primarily set in the 1930s, capturing the essence of early 20th-century America. This era provides a backdrop of both economic hardship and societal change, reflecting the aftermath of the Great Depression and the shifting cultural landscape of the time.
Geographically, the story spans the United States, taking readers on a journey from the depths of the ocean to various locations across the country. Key settings include the Queen Mary ocean liner, where Edward's journey begins, and the bustling streets of Memphis, which serve as one of the pivotal locations in the china rabbit's travels.
Throughout the story, Edward encounters diverse environments that showcase the varied facets of American life during this period. From the fireside of a hoboes' camp to the bedside of an ailing child, from a fisherman's boat to a doll store, each setting contributes to the rich tapestry of experiences that shape Edward's miraculous journey and personal growth.
Characters
Edward Tulane: The protagonist, a china rabbit. Initially vain and self-centered, Edward undergoes a transformative journey learning about love, loss, and compassion. His experiences with various owners change him profoundly, teaching him the value of genuine connections. Edward's character arc is central to the story's themes of personal growth and the power of love.
Abilene: Edward's original owner, a 10-year-old girl. She adores Edward completely and treats him with utmost care. Abilene's love for Edward sets the standard for the relationships he will experience throughout his journey. Her reappearance at the end of the story brings Edward's journey full circle.
Pellegrina: Abilene's grandmother who gives Edward to her. Pellegrina tells Edward a cautionary tale about a princess who loves no one, foreshadowing Edward's own journey. Her character serves as a catalyst for Edward's transformation.
Lawrence: A fisherman who rescues Edward from the ocean. He brings Edward home to his wife, marking the beginning of Edward's journey on land.
Nellie: Lawrence's wife, who dresses Edward in doll clothes. She treats Edward as a girl doll, providing him with a new perspective on identity.
Bull: A hobo who travels with Edward for a time. Bull's companionship introduces Edward to a different kind of lifestyle and friendship.
Lucy: A sick little girl who cares for Edward. Her unconditional love for Edward helps him understand the depth of human affection.
Sarah Ruth: The doll shop owner who repairs Edward after he is broken. She plays a crucial role in Edward's physical restoration and his eventual reunion with Abilene.
Quick facts
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane was published in 2006 and won the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award for children's fiction that same year.
The book was illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline, known for his detailed and realistic artwork.
The story is set in the 1930s and follows a china rabbit named Edward Tulane.
Edward spends 297 days at the bottom of the ocean after falling overboard from a ship.
The novel has been compared to Hans Christian Andersen's work, particularly “The Steadfast Tin Soldier."
In 2007, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane was named one of the Teachers' Top 100 Books for Children by the U.S. National Education Association.
The book was ranked 59th among all-time children's novels in a 2012 School Library Journal survey.
Film director Robert Zemeckis was set to adapt the book into a movie in 2013, though it has not yet been produced.
The Minnesota Opera commissioned an operatic adaptation of the story.
The book gained popularity in South Korea after being featured in the 2014 Korean drama My Love from the Star.
About the Author
Kate DiCamillo is a beloved American children's author of more than 25 novels. She made her literary debut in 2000 with Because of Winn-Dixie, which became an instant bestseller and earned a Newbery Honor. Since then, DiCamillo has explored diverse settings in her work while achieving remarkable success, including two Newbery Medals and more than 40 million books in print worldwide. Resonating with readers of all ages, her books often feature themes of loneliness, hope, and unexpected connections. Notable titles include The Tale of Despereaux, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, and Flora & Ulysses.
DiCamillo served as the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature from 2014 to 2015. Her books have been adapted into films, stage productions, and even an opera. Born in Philadelphia in 1964 and raised in Florida, DiCamillo now calls Minneapolis home. She maintains a disciplined writing routine, faithfully producing two pages a day, five days a week. Her most recent works include The Beatryce Prophecy and The Hotel Balzaar.
