D.E.A.R. was introduced in Beverly Cleary’s Ramona Quimby, Age 8. Ramona’s teacher introduced it to her class as an alternative to the S.S.R. (Sustained Silent Reading) that was popular at the time. And today, April 12th, is Beverly Cleary’s birthday. In her honor, I’d like to invite you to Drop Everything and Read for at least 15 minutes today.
Although, she is most well-known for her chapter book characters Ramona, Beezus, Henry Higgins, and Ralph (the mouse), and of course Dear Mr. Henshaw 1984 Newbery Award winner. What many of us may not know is that Beverly Cleary also authored several picture books.
Despite her age, or the age of her books, they are just as popular today as the day they were printed. I think that has a lot to do with addressing timeless childhood issues. I love this quote: “Quite often somebody will say, ‘What year do your books take place?’ and the only answer I can give is, in childhood.” -Beverly Cleary
Learn more about Beverly Cleary at her website.
Juliana Lee 
Wow, I wasn’t aware it was her birthday and that she is so close to 100. I loved her books as a child.
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Glad you found this site Linda. A lot of us grew up reading her books. I’m so glad that kids today are still reading the new releases. She did so much to advance children’s literature.
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