"Because of Winn-Dixie" is a children's novel written by Kate DiCamillo. The story follows a young girl named Opal who adopts a stray dog she names Winn-Dixie after the supermarket where she finds him. The bond between Opal and Winn-Dixie helps her navigate her new life in a small town and connect with the people around her. Throughout the book, Opal learns valuable lessons about friendship, acceptance, and the importance of community. The novel explores themes of loneliness and belonging, as Opal meets various characters, including Miss Franny, Otis, and Gloria, who each contribute to her understanding of life and relationships.