As a kid, I loved reading Beverly Cleary’s books. They stood out from others on the library shelves with their quirky characters who behaved like real people, their humour, and their vivid Oregon settings with unusual place names.
For a certain 9-year-old girl who wanted to become a writer, Beverly Cleary was a terrific inspiration. For a certain 20-some, then 30-some, woman who was learning to be a writer, Beverly Cleary was someone I hoped I could emulate someday.
Obviously, nobody else can be Beverly Cleary, or write with her unique voice and verve.
Happy birthday to an amazing role model!
Alison Lohans 