For the child who enjoys whimsical adventures and discovering where they truly belong, this book explores identity and family through a fantastical lens.
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels like an outsider or is grappling with questions about where they belong, especially in the context of adoption or a blended family. What-the-Dickens is a whimsical fantasy about a small, orphaned creature of an unknown species who is taken in by a family of cats. He joins them on a quest to help a distant relative, a journey that forces him to confront his own identity and the meaning of family. The story beautifully explores themes of belonging, self-acceptance, and the power of belief through a clever, charming animal adventure. Its sophisticated vocabulary and gentle, metaphorical approach make it ideal for imaginative middle-grade readers who are ready for a story with both heart and literary flair.
The core themes are orphanhood and adoption, handled metaphorically through the main character's journey. What-the-Dickens doesn't know what he is or where he came from. The approach is secular, with the central belief system revolving around the tooth fairy. The resolution is hopeful and affirming, emphasizing that family is about love and choice, not just biology.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for an imaginative, word-loving 9 to 12-year-old who feels a bit different from their peers. It's particularly resonant for a child navigating feelings related to adoption, being in a foster family, or simply feeling like they don't quite fit in. They enjoy animal fantasies but are ready for more complex emotional depth and sophisticated language.
Parent Prep
No specific preparation is needed; the book can be enjoyed without prior context. The rich vocabulary might be a good opportunity for discussion. Parents should be prepared for conversations about what makes a family, which the book beautifully presents as a matter of love and loyalty over shared genetics. A parent hears their child say something like, "Why am I the only one who...?" or "I wish I was like everyone else." The child might be feeling isolated or questioning their place within the family unit or a friend group.
Age Experience
A younger reader (9-10) will be captivated by the animal adventure, the mystery, and the charming characters. An older reader (11-12) will better appreciate Gregory Maguire's clever wordplay, the satire of the animal social structures, and the deeper allegorical meaning of finding one's identity and the nature of belief.
What Makes It Special
While many books feature talking animals, Maguire's signature literary style sets this one apart. It uses a whimsical fantasy plot to explore profound existential questions with wit and beautiful prose. The choice of the tooth fairy as the central mythos is unique and charming, offering a fresh take on the theme of belief.
Read plot summary
A tiny, orphaned creature called a skibberee, and nicknamed What-the-Dickens, is raised by a loving family of cats. When their famous cousin, Pearl, loses her faith in the tooth fairy, What-the-Dickens joins the cats on a perilous journey to find the tooth fairy's agent, Gage. Along the way, they navigate a hidden world of animal societies, face predators like the rat king, and What-the-Dickens ultimately learns about his own origins and what it truly means to belong.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
What-the-Dickens is a skibberee raised by cats. Do you think his family is defined by his species or by who loves and raises him? Why?
2
Gage tells What-the-Dickens that 'Belief is a force.' What do you think he means? How does the cats' belief in the tooth fairy change things in the story?
3
At the end of the book, What-the-Dickens decides to stay with the cats instead of searching for other skibberee. Why do you think he made that choice? Would you have done the same?
4
The animal groups in the book, like the cats, rats, and fireflies, all have their own societies and rules. Which society did you find most interesting, and why?
