This movie is definately a "MUST SEE!" by all of any age. I've never read the book, but I did go see this movie with my wife who has read it and said the film did indeed do the book justice. EXCELLENT acting by all (Latifah, Fanning, Okoned, Keys, and Hudson). NOTE: Do take tissues with you as this film will have you crying and laughing.
This movie has terrific cinematography. If I were to return as an animal it would be a Panda, gotta eat all the time. This is a very good movie for children to learn little lessons of life. I am going to go see it again with my other friends.