Beverly Cleary
by Jennifer Peltak
Infobase Publishing 2005
Great fit for 7th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- love of reading
- creativity
- overcoming obstacles
- empathy
- inspiration
- writing process
- impact of literature
About this book
This biography traces Beverly Cleary’s journey from a struggling young reader in Oregon to one of America’s most beloved children’s authors. Readers learn how her childhood, library work, and keen ear for kids’ voices inspired characters like Ramona Quimby and Henry Huggins. Photos, quotes, and background on publishing show how Cleary turned everyday moments into timeless stories. Perfect for middle school readers who love behind‑the‑scenes looks at authors and the books they adore.
Setting: United States, 1910s–2000s; primarily Oregon and California; the world of children’s publishing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beverly Cleary right for my child?
Yes — Beverly Cleary is a great fit for 7th grade. The reading level is AR 7.9, which is typical for 7th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include perseverance, love of reading, creativity.
How long does it take to read Beverly Cleary?
At a typical 7th grade reading pace, Beverly Cleary takes around 1.9h to finish. The book has 20,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Beverly Cleary have an AR quiz?
Yes — Beverly Cleary has an AR quiz available, worth 2 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Beverly Cleary?
Beverly Cleary has an AR reading level of 7.9, which places it at a 7th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.