Comments on: Ramona’s World

By: Clearly Kristal

Clearly Kristal — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 05:39:50 +0000

Loved this, Kristen! I, too, have enjoyed reading with my daughter all the Beverly Cleary books. I never read the books as a child – so – like you I want to read them just as much (maybe more) than my seven-year-old.

I also love the simplicity of the era that Cleary wrote. Life was so simple back then. Did you know Cleary actually wrote an autobiography entitled “The Girl From Yamville?” It’s on my list to read. I think you’d probably find it fascinating.

Lastly, while reading the books with my daughter this summer it got me to think about an interview I had read about how Cleary describes the challenges of writing her books while trying to raise small children. This reminded of my time as a latchkey child and as a mom now – so – of course – I had to include Cleary in my post. I hope you enjoy: http://clearlykristal.com/?p=452.

PS I thought she had passed too – until I did a Google search. Sorry, Mrs. Cleary!

By: kristen from motherload

kristen from motherload — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 03:53:42 +0000

NO WAY, Nell. There is a Beverly Cleary Elementary school in Portland? Well, I guess of course there is. I *love* that. And am packing up the house and family tonight to move north. Woo hoo!

Also, I have been buying all the Judy Blume Fudge books in thrift stores as I come across them. Looking forward to diving into those.

By: Daryce

Daryce — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 00:59:43 +0000

Great post!

By: Nell

Nell — Sun, 21 Oct 2012 03:51:24 +0000

I tried to get the boys to read Ramona…I really did. Several times! No luck (at least they did catch on to Judy Blume’s Fudge books.) Best I can do is that my dear friend’s daughters go to Beverly Cleary Elementary in Portland, not too far from Klickitat Street. Check it out next time you’re in Portlandia!

By: Sara

Sara — Sat, 20 Oct 2012 20:45:37 +0000

OK- I’ve just put all the Ramona books on our “To Read” pile! Thanks!

By: Virginia

Virginia — Sat, 20 Oct 2012 17:07:38 +0000

Have you ever read Beverly Cleary’s memoirs, “A Girl from Yamhill” and “My Own Two Feet”? They’ll make you love her even more. (They’re not for the kids, though!) One of my favorite facts about her is that she was a children’s librarian. Last I heard, she still lived down in Carmel. I’m with you — I keep hoping she’ll publish one more book!

By: kristen from motherload

kristen from motherload — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 22:17:40 +0000

I was thinking that I should find a way to give you credit in this post, Mary, but I couldn’t figure out where to squeeze it in. So, yes, you do win the best b-day present prize. Thank you!

We’ve spent many hours snuggled together reading them–and Kate has read them on her own too. I think we’re on to Henry Huggins next. Or maybe Otis Spofford.

I can’t even stand how excited I am to return to the Judy Blume books too!

By: Mary

Mary — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 15:43:11 +0000

Ok, I’ll just say it. Best birthday present ever from me! Also- does Kate use the word “exasperated” now in daily conversations?

They are such great books -and luckily great to reread over and over.