6 Beverly Cleary Books We Adore

I can remember reading Ramona Quimby, Age 8, when I was around seven and thinking there was no one cooler than Ramona. She faced real problems in her life, problems that were missing from other books catered to children, and she felt more like a friend that a character I was simply reading about. I think that’s why Cleary’s books have stood the test of time—kids want to read them. They are fresh and funny, and each character becomes molded into a child’s imagination and brain as if they were always there; as if they were their own personal friend. Cleary writes what children are thinking, and remembers to include the little things grown-ups would dismiss; the things that make children tick and that inspire and move them.
Cleary also struggled as a young reader and is an advocate for reading, libraries, and literacy. To help kids become more confident and excited about reading, her birthday, April 12, is also celebrated as Drop Everything and Read Day. She mentions the holiday in Ramona Quimby, Age 8, and I vaguely remember wondering if this were a real thing. It most definitely is! The day is celebrated nationwide as a reminder to make reading a priority, and I can’t think of anyone better to be linked to the celebration.
So in honor of Drop Everything and Read Day, and a very happy 101st birthday to Beverly Cleary, here are six books to add to your children’s collection. Have a cupcake, read one of these books, and send a heartfelt thanks to Cleary, an author deeply rooted in so many childhoods, an author that has stood the test of time, and whose characters have been our friends, our confidants, and a reflection of ourselves. Thanks for making childhood and growing up feel a little less scary, Bev.

The Complete Ramona Collection
You can’t start a Cleary celebration with out a little Ramona Quimby, you just can’t. I could never choose my favorite Ramona story, so the complete collection of her books seems like the best idea. Ramona was so relatable to me as a kid, but I still feel a tug towards her as an adult. She is messy, curious, impulsive, and often finds herself in situations that are more embarrassing than anything else, but she always perseveres. It doesn’t make any difference if your budding reader is a little boy or a little girl. Ramona’s adventures are perfect for everyone.
 

The Mouse and the Motorcycle
An unlikely friendship forms in The Mouse and the Motorcycle between Ralph the mouse and a boy named Keith, but it’s just the beginning of what makes this book so lovely. No one wants to remind a child of some of the more terrible things in life, but Cleary’s book features a little mouse whose idea lands him in a terrifying spot as an ode to all the big and complicated feelings a child can feel. Often, I think adults forget what it was like to be a kid, but Cleary didn’t. For any child who has been frightened, worried, nervous, or unsure, Ralph is a hero. The theme of friendship is also prevalent, and reminds us that all it takes is one kind heart to pull you out of your fears.

The World of Beverly Cleary Collection
Beverly Cleary never goes out of style, which is why this brand new eBook collection is so great. Featuring four of her classics—Henry Huggins, Ramona the Pest, The Mouse and the Motorcycle, and Socks—this is the perfect way to introduce your child to Beverly Cleary’s world. Each book is irresistible, but they are all unique and stand on their own, so there’s something for everyone in the family. Plus, you can’t beat the convenience of an eBook collection!

Henry Huggins
Henry Huggins is the first book Beverly Cleary wrote, as a direct reply to the little boy that sent her a letter asking for a children’s book featuring a character like him. Henry is every kid: full of whimsy, ideas, and adventures. When he finds a dog, Ribsy, his adventures become unforgettable. Henry isn’t a superhero or a kid with everything at his feet; he’s just an ordinary boy. Cleary wrote him with the intention of making him relatable, but she also wrote his book to be funny and exciting to keep readers interested and excited about books. This reissue is in eBook form and also features another childhood great in the intro—Judy Blume. Blume and Cleary? It’s basically my dream come true.

Dear Mr. Henshaw
Things get a little deeper in this Newbery Medal-winning book from Cleary. Sixth-grader Leigh is dealing with a lot of emotions after his parents separate. A new town with his mother, a new school, and a father who is absent has left Leigh feeing angry and confused. As an assignment for school, Leigh writes a letter to his favorite author, Boyd Henshaw, and a friendship blossoms as Mr. Henshaw replies. It’s a more mature Cleary book, but a must-read for any kid, especially one going through the emotions of growing up, of disappointment, and of anger. I love that Cleary had the exchange happen with an author rather than a celebrity or sports star; helping to grow a child’s excitement for literature even more. I first read this book around the age of ten, and I’ll tell you what—it’s worth a re-read for adults, too.

Fifteen
A newer novel by Cleary, Fifteen is the one that will make every adult wistfully hold their chest as you remember your first crush. For kids, it’s relatable, honest, and will make them feel less alone in their puppy love stage. The main character, Jane, is every teenage girl and it’s seriously refreshing to read her thoughts; from how much she wants to meet a boy, to how she compares herself to her peers, and her panicking about how she should act on her first date. It’s classic Cleary, and will warm your heart right along with your child’s.
What’s your favorite Beverly Cleary book?