Ramona the Pest

By Beverly Cleary

This is the second book in the Ramona Quimby series. There are eight books total, telling Ramona's story from nursery school through the age of ten. Ramona is a spunky, outgoing yet sensitive character experiencing the many lessons children learn throughout childhood. Ramona displays the typical behaviors and mental processes most kindergarten children possess. Ramona is ready to go to school and begin her journey towards independence, but she also yearns for the comfort and protection of "being the baby" of the family. 

Ramona struggles with self-restrain (pulling Susan's "boing-boing" curls), the need for acceptance and approval (especially from her teacher Mrs. Binney, her family, and friend Howie) and adjusting to new routines and procedures. Ramona puts on a "strong and brave" front for the reader the majority of the time, but does eventually reveal her acute sensitivity and need for protection and comfort when things don't always go her way. Ramona's character is highly relatable to a younger audience. Younger readers will "look up" to Ramona's bravery, laugh at her spunky behavior and understand her feelings and emotions.  Older readers will remember experiencing the same feelings and situations as Ramona and will also appreciate the humor and light-heartedness. 

Ramona the Pest was first published in 1968. The cover of the book has changed over the years to acclimate to the current time period. The art technique also varies from cover to cover. The first cover (on the right) uses "realism" and sharpened detail to portray the characters. The second cover released (on left) uses a more "cartoon-like" style to convey a playful and juvenile feel. The current cover (above) contains a more flat, and simplified technique. The colors are solid and Ramona appears mischeivous yet lovable. All of the portrayals of Ramona reflect her personality: fun-loving, brave, and curious.  Eventhough time passes around the reader, Ramona never grows old. She stays young and fun for the next generation of young readers. 

The Ramona Quimbly series has gained such popularity over the years that the book Ramonia and Beezus became a movie appealing to children and families. The movie website is http://www.beverlycleary.com/movie.aspx.  Readers can find more information about the movie and other books by Beaverly Clearly.