RAMONA QUIMBY AGE 8 (original 1981; edition 1982)

I was assigned this book in 2nd grade and refused to read it. That didn't go over well with my teacher or my parents and, after suffering threats of demotion to the lower-level reading group, I reluctantly finished it. I don't know why I hated it so much. ( )

I don't think I would have enjoyed Madame Doubtfire even as a kid. The emotionally fraught parts of it probably wouldn't have bothered me -- the family torn apart by divorce, etc, though it would bother some children -- but I would have been too embarrassed by the whole charade for words, and that's how I feel now, as an adult.

It's an attempt at realism, really -- despite the rather whacky concept. It deals with things the children might really think and feel, and with problems parents might well have with their former partners. Some children might find it funny, but eek -- I couldn't.

Looking forward to the lecture on this. I'm sure there'll be plenty to say about it. ( )

This was my first Ramona book. I loved it. It is a timeless story. I identified with it on so many levels. It brought back memories and feelings from my chilhood but I also identified with it as a mother and as a teacher.I thought Ms. Cleary did such a wonderful job giving Ramona a voice that was so realistic. Like one of my other favorite literary characters, Clementine, Ramona will make you smile, but she can also bring a tear to your eye. ( )

This book is about the daily up's and down's of a young child's life. The story focuses on Ramona's journey where she is eventually lead that no matter how hectic growing up is, your family is always there. This is a great family book that focuses on the importance of family while also encouraging young people to read through Ramona's love of reading. ( )

I love how realistic this book is for children to read. The things that happen in this story are so easy for kids to relate to. This book will make you laugh out loud, and smile A LOT. This book is also great because it emphasizes the value in reading as Ramona loves to read! Any reader, child or not, will identify with Ramona in this book. I could read it a thousand times.