* Early Love of Stories: DiCamillo has always been a voracious reader and deeply loved stories. She credits her parents for instilling this love in her, as they read to her every night and encouraged her to explore books independently.
* A Desire to Create: As a child, DiCamillo not only loved reading but also began writing her own stories. This natural inclination towards creating her own narratives was a clear sign of her passion for writing.
* A Teacher's Influence: DiCamillo's seventh-grade English teacher, Mrs. Judy Miller, played a crucial role in shaping her writing journey. She encouraged DiCamillo to write and praised her talent, providing valuable feedback and support.
* Facing Adversity: DiCamillo faced a challenging period in her life when she struggled with an eating disorder. Writing became her outlet and a way to cope with her emotions, further solidifying its importance to her.
* Finding Her Voice: DiCamillo's early attempts at writing focused on more adult themes, but it was when she began writing for children that she truly discovered her voice. She found a unique way to connect with young readers through her stories, exploring important themes of hope, resilience, and friendship.
In essence, DiCamillo's love for stories, her natural inclination to create, the influence of a supportive teacher, and the power of writing to cope with adversity all contributed to her journey towards becoming a successful author.