Kate DiCamillo

Kate DiCamillo is an American children's book author. She was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1964. She has won two Newbery Medals for her writing. Her books, like Because of Winn-Dixie and The Tale of Despereaux, are loved by readers around the world.

Early Life

DiCamillo was often sick as a child and spent a lot of time reading. She moved to Florida with her mother when she was five. She always dreamed of becoming a writer. She worked in a book warehouse before publishing her first novel at age 36.

Award-Winning Books

Because of Winn-Dixie, about a girl and a stray dog, was a Newbery Honor book. The Tale of Despereaux, about a brave little mouse, won the Newbery Medal. Flora and Ulysses, about a girl and a superhero squirrel, won her second Newbery Medal. She served as the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature.

Fun Facts

• Kate DiCamillo is one of few authors to win two Newbery Medals.
• She did not publish her first book until she was 36 years old.
• Because of Winn-Dixie and The Tale of Despereaux were both made into movies.

Did You Know?

Kate DiCamillo writes every morning and tries to write at least two pages a day. She says that showing up to write every day is the most important thing.