Beverly Cleary
Beverly Cleary was a celebrated American author known for her insightful and humorous children's books. Born on April 12, 1916, in McMinnville, Oregon, she passed away on March 25, 2021. Cleary's work often focused on the experiences of young children and adolescents, with characters like Ramona Quimby and Henry Huggins resonating with generations of readers. Her ability to capture the complexities of childhood in a relatable and entertaining manner made her one of the most beloved children's authors of the 20th century. Cleary's contributions to literature have been recognized with numerous awards, including the National Book Award and the Newbery Medal.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
-
1. The Mouse And The Motorcycle
This children's novel follows the adventures of a young mouse named Ralph, who discovers a toy motorcycle in a hotel room where he lives. When Ralph meets a boy named Keith, the two form an unlikely friendship. Ralph learns to ride the motorcycle, which becomes a symbol of freedom and excitement for him. However, he also faces challenges and learns important lessons about responsibility and the consequences of his actions. The story combines elements of fantasy and reality, offering readers a blend of humor, adventure, and moral insights.
The 5908th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Ramona The Pest
This book follows the adventures of Ramona Quimby, a spirited and curious kindergartener who often finds herself in the middle of mischief, much to the dismay of her family and teachers. With her vivid imagination and boundless energy, Ramona navigates the complexities of school life, friendships, and sibling relationships, all while trying to prove she's not as much of a pest as everyone seems to think. Through her eyes, readers experience the joys and challenges of growing up, learning valuable lessons about empathy, patience, and the importance of understanding others' perspectives.
The 5940th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. Ramona And Her Father
In this engaging children's novel, the story centers around Ramona Quimby, a spirited and imaginative young girl navigating the complexities of family life. When her father loses his job, the family dynamics shift, bringing financial strain and emotional challenges. Ramona, with her unique perspective and determination, seeks ways to help her family through this difficult time, aiming to earn money and even hoping to get her father to quit smoking. Throughout the story, themes of resilience, understanding, and the importance of family are explored, as Ramona learns valuable life lessons and the significance of supporting loved ones during tough times.
The 6211th Greatest Book of All Time -
4. Ramona Quimby, Age 8
This book follows the adventures and misadventures of an energetic third-grader as she navigates the complexities of school, family life, and growing up. With a knack for finding herself in humorous and sometimes challenging situations, the protagonist deals with the realities of a new school, making friends, and the dynamics of her family, including the financial strains they face. Her experiences are portrayed with warmth and understanding, capturing the essence of childhood with all its trials and triumphs. Through her eyes, readers explore themes of resilience, empathy, and the importance of a supportive family.
The 6434th Greatest Book of All Time -
5. Dear Mr. Henshaw
This book is a touching epistolary novel that follows the life of a young boy named Leigh Botts, who writes letters to his favorite author, Mr. Henshaw, as a way of coping with his parents' divorce, the challenges of moving to a new place, and the struggles of fitting in at school. Through his correspondence, Leigh not only finds a mentor in Mr. Henshaw but also discovers his own voice and passion for writing. The novel beautifully explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and the power of writing to heal and connect, making it a poignant read for both children and adults.
The 6539th Greatest Book of All Time
