Fiction. 'Because of Winn - Dixie' is a work of fiction. It tells a heartwarming story about a young girl, Opal, and her dog Winn - Dixie. The characters and the situations they encounter, such as the friendships Opal forms in the town, are made - up. The town itself is also a fictional setting, designed to create a backdrop for the story's themes of friendship, loss, and family. It's a great example of fictional literature that has the power to touch readers' hearts.
It can be classified as historical fiction. The story often references and reflects the social and cultural aspects of a particular historical period, giving it that genre classification.
Opal is very important. She is the main character and the story is mostly about her experiences. Winn - Dixie, of course, is crucial. He is the dog that changes Opal's life. And Gloria Dump, she is an old lady who befriends Opal and has a big impact on her life.
Friendship is a key theme. Opal, being new in town, is lonely until she meets Winn - Dixie. Their relationship grows and shows how a friendship can change a person's life. Then there's the theme of acceptance. The town initially sees Winn - Dixie as a nuisance but later accepts him. And family is also a theme as Opal is searching for a connection to her absent mother.