Orris and Timble by Kate DiCamillo

Orris and Timble are the title characters of a new chapter-book series by Kate DiCamillo about a rat, an owl, and their unlikely friendship.

*Orris and Timble: The Beginning by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Carmen Mok. Candlewick, 2024, 76 pages.

Reading Level: Chapter book, ages 6-8

Recommended for: ages 3-5 as a read-aloud; 6-8 for independent readers

Orris is a self-sufficient rat who’s made a comfortable home for himself in the abandoned barn. The red velvet slipper makes a cozy bed, book pages provide interesting wallpaper, and his yellow marble glows like a lamp. He even has inspirational artwork: an Imperial Sardine can picturing an imperial sardine and a motto: “Make the good and noble choice.” When the light is just right, the fish appears to look Orris right in the eye.

One night, Orris hears a terrifying screech in the barn. Peering through the crack in the wall, Orris sees an owl caught in a mousetrap. Not my problem, he thinks, and tries to get comfortable in his slipper again. But King Sardine appears to be admonishing him: Make the good and noble choice! Can Orris overcome his fear of a predator and help the poor owl (who also seems quite young and naïve)? Can natural enemies become friends?

There’s more to this simple story than meets the eye at first, but young children will enjoy the personalities and gentle humor. Slightly older siblings will enjoy reading it aloud to them. Grownups will be looking for the next volume in the series, for this one is just The Beginning.

Bottom Line: a sweet and cozy read with a strong moral core.    

Also at Redeemed Reader:

• Reviews: Ferris and The Puppets of Spelhorst are our latest favorites from DiCamillo; see also our review of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (all starred).
• Reviews: More DiCamillo chapter/picture book series worth checking out: the Mercy Watson series and Tales from Deckawoo Drive.
• Reflection: Looking for good chapter-book friends for your first and second graders? Betsy has thoughts about Junie B. Jones and Jasper John Dooley.

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