"Courage, Truth, and Honor"

The Tale of Despereaux is a classic fable about coming of age, and the nature of a quest. The bravest among us are often outcasts, and Despereaux is no exception. His thirst for knowledge marks him early on.

From the start, he is born looking different from his family, but the differences go far deeper. As a child, Despereaux exhibits none of the typically mousy traits that identify the rest of his clan.

School is even worse. Far from merely rebellious, Despereaux is desperate for information. He doesn't have blind allegiances, because he simply doesn't think like that. It propels him where other mice fear to go.

He is severely chastised by the headmaster for his lack of cowering prowess and other "skills". His parents are unable to care for this mysterious child who is beyond their capabilities. Despereaux hungers to explore. Naturally, he takes the lead. His friends reluctantly follow, nervous and timid. His peers are afraid, and threatened by his courage. Their collective insecurities build up to his inevitable end—Despereaux is sold out by his family to the elders of their village, for breaking the rules. He is banished as an outcast.

The knowledge he gained as an outsider provide him with skills as an adventurer. He sets out, eager to see what lies beyond his childhood village. He takes risks because of his insatiable and innate curiosity.

Despereaux is more than noble, just, and kind; he's willing to fight for his beliefs, despite constant challenges. There's courage, truth, and honor to his struggle. What more can one ask than to be tested beyond endurance? You come out better and stronger than you ever thought possible. There's pain and loss and joy in this story, just like life. I wish you a difficult journey, because there's much to be learned.  Enjoy the adventure of your life.