'Beverly Cleary captures a child’s perspective in a way that is totally convincing and never condescending, and feels authentic even several decades on. And Ramona—impetuous, bright, hungry for attention, and selfish in the way that children always are—is her masterpiece. Beverly Cleary is one grownup who never lost sight of just how intense a child’s griefs and joys could be. She does not moralize or romanticize; her stories don’t aim to teach children not to be selfish or to see things as their parents do. They are honest, they are funny, and they make children feel seen and valued as they are. I’m glad to know Ramona and all her neighbors will be there for my sons to provide good company whenever grownups like me don’t understand. Happy Birthday, Ms. Cleary, and thank you for the gift.'
At www.commonwealmagazine.org
