Beverly Cleary shows her talent again in the first book completely about Ramona Quimby — “Ramona the Pest.” This book tells the story of Ramona’s trials and tribulations as she enters the world of kindergarten. From learning new things and having fun with show-and tell, Ramona will keep you and your child enthralled as you follow her through mischief and mishaps.
On Ramona’s first day of kindergarten, her teacher seats everyone as they walk into the classroom. Miss Binney, Ramona’s kindergarten teacher directs her to a desk and says, “Sit here for the present.” Unfortunately, Ramona misunderstands that her teacher simply means “for now” and thinks that she will get a present as long as she stays seated. Ramona does not budge from her seat all day and when she refuses to go outside for recess, Miss Binney finally asks her why she can not go outside. When she finds out that Ramona was expecting a present, she explains what she meant, apologizes, and takes Ramona outside for recess. The confusion for Ramona only begins there.
Ramona seems to have trouble with a few of her classmates. When she has to give an old stuffed bunny to her friend Howie for show-and-tell, Ramona is delighted when Miss Binney ties a beautiful red ribbon around its neck. After arguing ensues between Howie and Ramona, they finally make a compromise and Ramona ends up keeping the ribbon. Then, there is Davy whom Ramona likes to chase around the playground every morning before school starts and during recess. Ramona wishes to pull on Susan’s wonderfully curly hair to watch the curls spring back into place. Unfortunately, Susan is not such a good sport and Ramona gets into trouble.
Kindergarten, Ramona figures, is a place to learn new things and to try to be a big girl like her older sister Beezus. One night, Mrs. Quimby tells Beezus that she does not have enough light in the room to read. When Ramona decides to show off her new kindergarten knowledge, she ends up embarrassed and cross.
“Ramona the Pest” is a riot for any child or parent. Those who have been through kindergarten and understand little children will especially enjoy this book.
“Ramona the Pest” can be purchased at any major bookseller including Barnes and Noble, Borders, and Amazon.