Dear Mr. Henshaw

Beverly Cleary’s novel follows sixth-grader Leigh Botts as he navigates the quiet upheavals of childhood. Written in a dual format that alternates between personal journal entries and letters to his favorite author, the book captures Leigh’s attempts to process his parents’ separation, a recent move, and the everyday challenges of growing up. Cleary grounds the narrative in the specific rhythms of middle school life, where small frustrations and quiet triumphs carry equal weight. The correspondence with Mr. Henshaw becomes a structured outlet for Leigh’s thoughts, gradually revealing how writing can serve as both mirror and compass. The work is recognized for its unvarnished portrayal of family change and its emphasis on self-reliance during periods of transition. By blending introspective diary entries with direct address, Cleary creates a narrative voice that feels immediate and authentic. The novel remains valued for its respectful treatment of emotional complexity and its demonstration that finding one’s voice often begins with simply putting pen to paper.