Walking with Ramona

August 1, 2016

Beloved children's author Beverly Cleary (b. 1916), and her equally adored character Ramona Quimby, are the subjects of this slender travel guide to Portland, OR. Cleary grew up in the 1920s and 1930s in the city's northeast Hollywood neighborhood. Chapter 5 provides suggestions for eating, drinking, and shopping in this area. Hers wasn't a happy childhood, but the tales she produced are filled with delightful protagonists and engrossing events. Foster delivers a walking (or biking) guide to the district of Portland Cleary called home and where she set her stories. A result of the author's tours (advertised as "Walking with Ramona" and drawing up to 200 participants on some days), this volume features, in addition to Foster's chatty-style tour route, historical details, and many photographs. Readers will also find additional information about Cleary's experiences and fiction. VERDICT A quick but fascinating read loaded with details that make it ideal for fans of the author, this title may have a limited audience, but its charm is as heart-warming as Cleary's creations.--Janet N. Ross, formerly with Washoe Cty. Lib. Sys., Sparks, NV

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