Beverly Cleary is one of the top children’s authors of all time. Since their publications, Cleary’s timeless stories continue to reach children and inspire them to be themselves, as well as instill a deep love for reading. Check out our list of her must read books.
1. Emily’s Runaway Imagination
Taking place around the 1920’s, Emily Bartlett dreams for her small town of Pitchfork, Oregon to have a library. With the help of her mother and a little imagination along the way, Emily starts to make her dream a reality. This is a great read for kids because it encourages them to never limit their dreams or imaginations.
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2. Beezus and Ramona
Cleary’s first book in the Ramona series, Beezus and Ramona, is all about the good and the bad of sisterhood. Four-year old Ramona has a wild imagination, doesn’t always follow the rules, and constantly bothers her older sister Beezus, who struggles with mixed feelings towards her bubbly younger sister. Perfect for readers who have siblings who sometimes drive them nuts!
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3. Henry Huggins
Henry Huggins follows a boy who meets a lovable, sweet puppy that loves getting into mischief. Henry and Ribsy soon become inseparable, however, that could all change when the puppy’s original owners come into play.
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4. Otis Spofford
Meet Otis Spofford, a class clown who will do anything for a little excitement. Although, when it comes to Ellen Tebbits, he takes his teasing a little too far. Otis is in for a treat when Ellen doesn’t just get mad, though hatches a little plan to get back at him.
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5. Ramona Quimby Age 8
In Ramona Quimby Age 8, Ramona is having to adjust to many changes going on in her life. Not only is her father going to college and her mother going to work, but Ramona is having to attend a brand new school. Ramona uses these newfound changes to prove to her family that she’s big enough for them to depend on.
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6. Strider
Leigh Botts is going through a tough time in his life as his parents are getting a divorce. One day, he comes across a stray dog named Strider. As Leigh and Strider‘s relationship grows closer, Leigh finds himself learning how to deal with the separation of his parents and, ultimately, changing for the better.
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7. Henry And Beezus
Henry and Beezus is the perfect story about the innocence of friendship. Henry knows he can always count on Beezus to be by his side when he needs it most. Kids will find this story to be both hilarious and entertaining while also learning about hard work and not being afraid to ask for help when need be.
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8. Two Times The Fun
If you have a pair of twins, this book is a must to read to them! Two Times The Fun follows the adventures of Jimmy and Janet, a set of twins who are not always alike. Jimmy wants to dig a hole with a real, big grown-up shovel while Janet loves to use her imagination and pretend to be a bird. This book is great with encouraging children to embrace their differences and also take comfort in their similarities.
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9. A Girl From Yamhill
A Girl From Yamhill is Beverly Cleary’s personal story of what it was like for her as a kid growing up during the Great Depression. Anyone who is a fan of Cleary should add her memoir to their TBR to learn more about the woman who has created such relatable, clever, and endearing children’s stories.
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10. Ellen Tebbits
Ellen Tebbits is another great story about the bonds of true friendship. Ellen meets Austine, a new girl in town, and they instantly become best friends after sharing the same secret. Soon, the two are doing everything together, until one day a misunderstanding leads to Ellen hurting Austine’s feelings. Ellen must find a way to show how sincerely sorry she is in order to get her best friend back.
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What are some of your favorite Beverly Cleary books? Let us know in the comments below!
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h/t Bustle
