| At last Beverly Cleary has given Ramona Quimby
a book of her own. No longer is she the shy nemesis of Henry Huggins
or the exasperating responsibility of Beezus. Instead she is a five-year-old
with spirit'and a rare opportunity to explain her side of things.
The story deals with Ramona's entrance into kindergarten, a memorable
event for all concerned. Whether Ramona is proving what a good rester
she is by snoring delicately during quiet time or whether she is
pulling Susan's tempting curls, she makes her presence known. Most
of the time Ramona loves her teacher, Miss Binney, wholeheartedly.
How Miss Binney feels is anyone's guess. Mrs. Quimby tells her daughter,
"She will never forget you as long as she lives."
Nothing seems quite so funny to children as the tales of what they
did when they were little. Here then is an account of kindergarten
days for readers who have passed that awkward stage. Many will find
that Ramona's escapades hilarious; others will be moved by her struggles
to make a place for herself in an uncomprehending world.
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