Beezus and Ramona

Title: Beezus and Ramona

Author: Beverly Cleary

ISBN: 0-439-14802-2

Format: Chapter Book-Fiction

Pages: 159 pgs.

Review: This book is one of the classic Ramona series. I believe it is the first in the series to set the tone and history for the other books to follow. It is about two sisters, Beezus, who is 9 going on 10 years old, and Ramona, 4 years old. Beezus, short for Beatrice, is worn out by her little sister. She is selfish, mean, rude, and self-gratifying, a little typical for a 4 year old, but Beezus, has a hard time dealing with her. She interrupts her all the time, asks her to read the same book over and over, always has to do things her way, and even ruins two birthday cakes for Beezus. The story ends with Beezus realizing that sisterly love is not always necessary and it is ok to not appreciate her little sister, she learns that with time Ramona will change and they will look back on their childhoods and laugh.

This is a really good read for younger tweens. It has really good messages throughout about responsibilities, family, and patience. At times Ramona even frustrated me! I think many young tweens can relate this story as I am sure many have annoying younger siblings to deal with. It gives these tweens a character to identify with and maybe even some solutions to their own problems at home. Beezus is a great example of a good older sibling. She is a model for other tweens to follow and I look forward to reading the other Ramona books by Beverly Clearly and maybe even seeing the movie which was released today!