If I mention “Beezus,” and you immediately think of “Ramona,” then your childhood literary adventures were undoubtedly enriching. On April 12, one of the most renowned authors in children’s literature, Beverly Cleary, will celebrate her 100th birthday. Many who spent their weekends in the ’70s and ’80s exploring the stacks at their local libraries are no strangers to her work.
Beverly Cleary’s storytelling prowess inspired me to become a librarian, which is particularly fitting since she herself began her career as a librarian. From her earliest years, it was evident that she possessed a remarkable talent for narrative. She fondly recalls a grammar school experience when her teacher praised her first story, declaring it flawless and unworthy of revision—a true testament to her innate writing abilities.
In 1949, Cleary sat down at her typewriter, hoping to craft a grand tale about a sensitive young girl. However, the words did not come as expected. Instead, she found inspiration from a child she had assisted at the library, who asked, “Where are the books about kids like us?” This question sparked the first line of her inaugural book: “Henry Huggins was in the third grade.”
Her unique ability to authentically capture the voices of children transformed the landscape of children’s literature. Cleary shattered stereotypes with her groundbreaking female characters, notably Beezus Quimby and her spirited sister, Ramona. Ramona was not the typical shy girl; she was vibrant, curious, and imaginative, resonating with countless readers who, like me, spent lazy afternoons lost in her adventures. For many of us, Ramona was the first female character who could carry the narrative with her dynamic presence.
Cleary’s literary contributions continued with beloved characters such as Henry Huggins, Socks the Cat, Ellen Tebbits, Muggie Maggie, and even Ralph S. Mouse, the motorcycle-riding rodent. Among her many accolades, she received the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1984 for her book Dear Mr. Henshaw, which explores the correspondence between a sixth-grade boy and his favorite author. Furthermore, she was honored as a Library of Congress Living Legend and awarded the National Medal of Arts, along with numerous other commendations.
Today, I attribute my lifelong passion for reading to Beverly Cleary’s work. Her books, which have sold nearly 100 million copies, have inspired generations of young readers, including my own children. This month, we join the nation in celebrating D.E.A.R. Day, a month-long initiative emphasizing the importance of reading, held on April 12 in honor of Cleary’s birthday.
Thank you, Beverly Cleary, for being an iconic voice for children, for gifting me with cherished literary friends, and for enriching my youth with captivating stories that ignite imagination and inspiration. May your storytelling continue to resonate with future generations.
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In summary, Beverly Cleary’s impact on children’s literature is profound and enduring. Her unique characters and relatable stories have fostered a love for reading among countless individuals, making her a cherished figure in literary history.
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