Beverly Cleary passed away this week at the age of 104, and I am mourning her loss. I loved the Ramona books growing up, but I’ve been loving them even more with my kids. Last summer I bought the audiobook package of the entire series performed by Stockard Channing, and we’ve listened through them all at least three times. We’re in the middle of “Ramona the Brave” right now.

My son and I identify most with Beezus, especially in the first book, Beezus and Ramona. We’re both the oldest kid, responsible and a bit bossy, and can’t understand why the youngest kid won’t just listen to us. We love being relied upon, but we also value freedom. My favorite scene with Beezus is when she’s in art class trying to be creative by painting an imaginary animal, while also trying to impress the hard-to-please teacher, while keeping one eye on Ramona who has tagged along and is making mischief. Beezus feels like my adult self. She’s a juggler, a prioritizer, someone who wants to do the right thing but is also learning to value her small rebellious streak– the one that reminds her of Ramona.

My daughter hasn’t expressed her identification out loud, but I strongly suspect her affinity for Ramona. When Ramona talks back to Beezus, or comes up with wild justifications for her behavior, I think, “That sounds like Eleanor.” My favorite scene with Ramona is the one where she squeezes all the toothpaste out of the tube just to see how it would feel, then immediately regrets her own wastefulness! Eleanor pushes boundaries just like Ramona, but she also wants to be good, and values her place as the youngest in the family. Listening to Ramona’s stories helps me understand my youngest better.

Families need both Ramonas and Beezuses (Beezi?) to keep balance. I’m grateful we have such beautiful examples in literature.

Rest in peace, Beverly Cleary. You’ve left your mark on our family with vibrant characters that bring joy and empathy for others.