This has always been one of my favorite books. Yes, it is a kid's book, but it uses beautiful language and imagery that captured me when I first read it almost 14 years ago. It is a reat story that has several important big ideas and morals including the importance of community, that being different is a good thing, the importance of selflessness, and the power of friendship. As an adult, I still love this book, and it is one of my top favorites. As a future teacher, I definitely plan on having this book in my library and encouraging students to read it.