Beverly Cleary gives insight into Ramona Quimby’s relationship with her dad in “Ramona and Her Father.” Now in second grade, Ramona accidentally insults her teacher right before the conference with Mr. Quimby. Of course, she once again feels that the school year is ruined. In the meantime, Ramona’s father loses his job and the family must learn to deal with the repercussions that follow.
As a result of Mr. Quimby losing his job, Ramona begins to think of ways to help the family get money. After seeing a little boy in a commercial for the local Whopperburger, Ramona’s father says, “That boy must be earning a million dollars.” This prompts Ramona to imitate television commercials with children in order to practice for what she thinks could be an acting career. Imagine what happens when she uses prickly burs to copy a margarine commercial where a crown appears on a boy’s head!
Ramona’s father takes up smoking right after losing his job. In an effort to save his life, Ramona decides to put a plan into action. First, she tries to make a sign but runs out of room. Her father ends up asking her about NOSMO KING, because NO SMO is on the top line of the paper and KING is on the bottom line. Ramona’s older sister Beezus decides to help Ramona with her campaign and assists her in putting up random signs in the house, all of which are ignored by Mr. Quimby. Although Mr. Quimby attempts to ignore the girls’ tries, he finally agrees to try and quit.
Since the Quimbys are short of money it is a great treat whenever the family gets anything extra. One evening during dinner, Mrs. Quimby announces that a neighbor has given them a huge pumpkin for Halloween. Mr. Quimby creates a scary-looking jack-o-lantern just for his daughters, per their specifications. But when the family cat Picky-picky gets too hungry because he refuses to eat his cheap cat food, a disaster occurs!
When Christmas comes closer and it is time to cast the Sunday school’s live Nativity, Beezus is chosen for the role of Mary. Not wanting to be outdone by her older sister, Ramona volunteers to be a sheep for the shepherds. Since the church does not have the proper costumes, Ramona says that her mother can make hers — not thinking about the fact that her mother works. Her friends Davy and Howie get to be sheep as well and Ramona is thrilled. Unfortunately, Ramona’s mother is far too busy working to complete the entire costume. Find out what happens in the Nativity when Ramona has to wear a pair of old pajamas as part of her costume!
Another great story is told in “Ramona and Her Father.” Reading it with your child will be an enjoyable experience for you both.
“Ramona and Her Father” is available at most major booksellers, including Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Borders.