Ramona the Brave by Beverly Cleary has been praised for its relatable portrayal of childhood emotions and challenges. Readers appreciate Ramona’s spirited personality and her realistic experiences. However, some find Ramona’s behavior occasionally grating. Overall, it remains a cherished, insightful narrative on growing up.

Ramona the Brave readers are typically children aged 6-9 who enjoy relatable characters and everyday adventures. Fans of Judy Blume’s Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing or Andrew Clements’ Frindle will appreciate the humor and heart in Beverly Cleary’s portrayal of childhood. Ideal for those who love stories of growth, family, and school life.

In Ramona the Brave by Beverly Cleary, six-year-old Ramona Quimby navigates the challenges of first grade, sibling rivalry, and a home renovation that grants her a coveted private room. Her bravery emerges when she defends her sister Beezus, copes with a strict new teacher, and stands up to a menacing dog, culminating in Ramona finding her own sense of courage and confidence.

Playful / Humorous / Emotional / Heartwarming

- Ramona the Brave was first published in 1975 and is part of Beverly Cleary's beloved series featuring the character Ramona Quimby, which began with Beezus and Ramona in 1955.
- The book explores themes of courage and individuality, reflecting Cleary's characteristic style of addressing real childhood emotions and experiences with humor and empathy.
- Beverly Cleary wrote Ramona the Brave partly to give a voice to the frustrations and triumphs of younger children, particularly focusing on the life of a first-grader.

**Ramona Quimby**  
A spirited six-year-old who navigates the challenges of first grade, family dynamics, and personal growth with creativity and determination.

**Beatrice “Beezus” Quimby**  
Ramona's older sister who is responsible, orderly, and an ally to Ramona, supporting her through familial and social challenges.

**Mrs. Quimby**  
The mother of Ramona and Beezus, she balances parenting with her external job responsibilities and helps guide her daughters through life’s challenges.

**Mr. Quimby**  
Ramona's father, who, while generally working outside the home, offers emotional support and stability to Ramona and her family.

**Mrs. Griggs**  
Ramona's first-grade teacher, whose strict classroom management style contrasts with Ramona's free spirit, challenging her to earn approval and adapt to new expectations.

Beverly Cleary

Middle grade

Novel

Ramona Quimby

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Ramona the Brave and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Ramona the Brave Summary and Study Guide

Background

Ramona the Brave Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Ramona the Brave Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

Ramona the Brave Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-9

Ramona the Brave Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Ramona the Brave Character Analysis

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Themes

Ramona the Brave Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Ramona the Brave Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Ramona the Brave Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Ramona the Brave Essay Topics

Ramona the Brave

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Ramona the Brave?

Reading Age

Book Details