Happy 2021, friends! SSR kicks off a new year and the third annual Manuary with a conversation about Kate DiCamillo’s award-winning middle grade novel Because of Winn-Dixie. Published in 2000, the book tells the story of a young girl named Opal who navigates life in a new town — among a colorful cast of characters — with the help of a dog named Winn-Dixie. On Episode 127, Because of Winn-Dixie inspires conversations about everything from Dave Matthews and empathy to toxic masculinity and pet personalities. Follow Hunter McLendon on Instagram (@shelfbyshelf), Twitter (@shelfbyshelf), and YouTube (Shelf By Shelf). Check out Shelf by Shelf for reviews, book discussions, and more.