Beverly Cleary and Katherine Applegate…pure magic!

Celebrating Beverly Cleary, D.E.A.R. Day, and The One and Only Family

Some authors have a way of creating stories that stay with us forever. Their words linger in our minds, shaping our love for reading and storytelling. For many generations, Beverly Cleary was one of those authors—capturing the hearts of young readers with her relatable characters and timeless narratives. Her stories, filled with humor and heart, made readers feel understood. Even the youngest readers found a character they adored! Ramona Quimby, Henry Huggins, and Ralph S. Mouse became beloved literary companions, teaching life lessons while keeping young readers engaged.

Honoring Beverly Cleary and the Joy of Reading

Each year on April 12th, we celebrate the incredible legacy of Beverly Cleary. Her birthday also marks the national observance of D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Read) Day, a movement designed to encourage children and adults alike to take time out of their busy lives to read. This simple yet powerful initiative reminds us of the joy and value of reading, both inside and outside the classroom.

D.E.A.R. Time isn’t just a fun activity—it’s an essential tool for fostering literacy and a love of books. When students engage in uninterrupted reading, they develop stronger comprehension skills, increase their vocabulary, and build reading stamina. Giving students the freedom to choose their own books during D.E.A.R. also enhances engagement, as they become more invested in stories that resonate with them. This practice nurtures lifelong readers and helps them discover the worlds that books can unlock.

Connecting Past and Present: The Magic of Katherine Applegate

Just as Beverly Cleary’s books made a lasting impact on previous generations, today’s young readers are experiencing that same magic with the works of Katherine Applegate. Known for her emotional depth and compelling storytelling, Applegate has a remarkable ability to create characters that captivate young minds. One of her most beloved series, The One and Only Ivan, has introduced readers to a heartwarming and thought-provoking world inspired by a real-life gorilla. This series has quickly become loved among all ages, and has found itself the center of many novel studies in classrooms all over! The latest installment, The One and Only Family, continues this legacy, offering another unforgettable reading experience.

Bring The One and Only Family to Life in Your Classroom

For educators looking to bring the magic of The One and Only Family into their classrooms, a structured novel study can provide the perfect opportunity to enhance comprehension and engagement. This ready-to-use, no-prep book study includes chapter-by-chapter comprehension questions, writing activities, review exercises, and assessments designed to guide students through the book in an interactive and meaningful way. By incorporating structured discussions and activities, teachers can help students develop critical thinking skills, analyze literary themes, and connect emotionally with the story.

Beverly Cleary’s legacy and D.E.A.R. Day remind us of the importance of encouraging a love for reading. Pairing this celebration with engaging, modern stories like The One and Only Family ensures that today’s students continue to find joy and inspiration in books that shape their perspectives and imaginations. Whether through classic literature or contemporary masterpieces, fostering a strong reading culture in the classroom is one of the most valuable gifts we can offer young learners. 

Let this be the year you make D.E.A.R. a regular part of your classroom routine—your students will thank you for it!