41 pages 1 hour read

Beverly Cleary

Ramona Forever

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1984

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Character Analysis

Ramona Quimby

Ramona Quimby is the protagonist of Ramona Forever. She is a nine-year-old girl who lives on Klickitat Street in Portland, Oregon, with her mother, father, and older sister Beezus. Ramona is a dynamic character whose trajectory shapes the narrative’s emotional arc and its portrayal of childhood experiences for young readers. She is characterized as an energetic and playful girl who loves to be active. While Ramona has an outgoing and confident personality, she is also sensitive and tries to avoid conflict with her family and friends. Arguments affect Ramona deeply, and she cannot enjoy life until conflicts are resolved. For example, when she argues with her sister Beezus, she is tortured by her sister’s silent treatment until the two start speaking again; Ramona feels “light and happy” when she and Beezus finally make up (60).

Because of Ramona’s interest in harmony, she often tries to play the peacemaker and smooth things over between others. For instance, when her Aunt Bea and Uncle Hobart argue about the wedding flowers, Ramona is quick to jump in and come up with a solution. Ramona is good-natured and friendly to others. For instance, while she doesn’t really enjoy playing with her young neighbor Willa Jean, she does her best to be kind to her and include her.