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02/12/2025
Beverly Cleary, once a struggling reader, believed that reading should be enjoyable, not just something you have to learn in school. ๐๐๐ Theneedtoread.org
Beverly Cleary, once a young girl who struggled with reading, went on to become one of the most beloved authors in children's literature. As a child, she was put on academic probation due to her difficulty with reading. The books she was assigned in school didnโt spark her imagination, and she found them dull and unrelatable. However, it was the encouragement of a school librarian that sparked her love for reading, proving how influential positive guidance can be in shaping a child's future.
After earning a college degree, Cleary worked as a childrenโs librarian, but she still found many children's books to be unrealistic and uninspiring. She felt that the characters in these stories didnโt reflect the true nature of childrenโlively, curious, and full of personality. This observation led her to start writing her own stories, creating characters like Ramona Quimby, Henry Huggins, and Ribsy. Her books quickly resonated with readers, offering an authentic and humorous portrayal of childhood.
Cleary went on to write over 40 books, which won numerous awards and sold millions of copies worldwide. Her works continue to be a staple in children's literature, offering relatable stories for young readers and fostering a lifelong love of reading. Despite her early struggles with books, Beverly Clearyโs legacy is a testament to how a single personโs passion and determination can inspire generations of readers, encouraging them to see the joy and value in literature.