As a young girl, I was an avid reader. Each week, my father and I would visit the library after dinner, where I would spend hours selecting more than ten books to get me through until our next trip. I devoured countless classics—Nancy Drew, the Boxcar Children, Roald Dahl’s stories, and the Baby-Sitters Club. However, over 30 years later, one character continues to resonate deeply with me: Ramona Quimby.
I read all of Beverly Cleary’s works, diving into the friendships of Ellen and Austine and exploring the adventures in Henry Huggins, but it was the Ramona series that captured my heart. I read each book multiple times, and I couldn’t get enough of the TV adaptations I found on video at the library.
When I came across the concept of “payday”—the day Ramona’s father brings home a special treat after receiving his paycheck—I pleaded with my dad to do the same. He offered me a dollar, but I insisted that it needed to be a small, meaningful item, just like Ramona received. I craved the same thrill and anticipation that she felt. I recognized that, for Ramona, even inexpensive items symbolized her father’s love. It’s no surprise that one of my love languages is receiving gifts.
The Ramona stories didn’t rely on fantastical elements or exotic escapades. Instead, they depicted a girl experiencing the world around her, filled with relatable emotions. Beverly Cleary infused real-life issues into her stories—financial struggles, parental conflicts, and feelings of unworthiness—topics often overlooked in other children’s literature. These challenges were seamlessly integrated into Ramona’s life, reflecting the reality children face.
I connected with Ramona’s experiences of envy, embarrassment, and the desire to contribute to her family. Beverly Cleary understood how children perceive their parents and their surroundings. Ramona’s misbehavior wasn’t a sign of being “bad” but rather a natural response to the overwhelming feelings children often carry. Cleary reassured readers that it’s okay to feel worried or uncomfortable and that, ultimately, love and security prevail.
Years later, when my daughter was born, I was eager to introduce her to Ramona Quimby. Recently, my five-year-old began exploring Ramona’s world, coinciding with a year filled with challenges and changes in our lives. She has witnessed her parents navigating stress and worry, yet I hope she also sees the immense love we have for her, despite our imperfections.
Thank you, Beverly Cleary, for bringing Ramona Quimby into my life. Your stories helped me realize that life’s imperfections are ordinary yet significant. You conveyed these truths with warmth and humor. In a passage from Ramona and Her Mother, Mrs. Quimby reflects on the imperfections of adulthood, reminding us all that it’s perfectly fine to not be perfect:
“Haven’t you noticed grown-ups aren’t perfect?” asked Mrs. Quimby. “Especially when they are tired.”
“Then how come you expect us kids to be so perfect all the time?” demanded Ramona.
“Good question,” said Mrs. Quimby. “I’ll have to think of an answer.”
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Summary
This piece reflects on the impact of Ramona Quimby, a character from Beverly Cleary’s books, on the author’s life. It highlights how Ramona’s relatable experiences and emotions resonate with readers, showing that it’s okay to feel imperfect. The author anticipates sharing Ramona’s story with her daughter, helping her navigate life’s challenges.
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