“I’m making a joyful noise until the Lord like they say in Sunday school.”

Cleary’s craft was evident in the way she was able to characterize the young protagonists in her stories through subtle yet effective means, such as this little error in Ramona’s speech. Like all children, Ramona mishears a common phrase and makes it her own. The result is that Ramona is presented as an endearing and innocent figure.

“She was used to being called a pest.”

The other side of Ramona’s personality is often a troublemaker, and Ramona is used to her sister retaliating when she starts arguments. Ramona irritates her sister on purpose and, in turn, comes to view Beezus as a sort of antagonist in her life. Ramona is also no stranger to being lectured for the consequences of her sometimes shortsighted decisions.

“Ramona felt sad and somehow lonely, as if she were left out of something important, because her family was in trouble and there was nothing she could do to help.”

Ramona starts Facing Adult Issues as a Child when her father is laid off and everyone starts pitching in to help the family. Despite only being seven years old, Ramona feels an equal responsibility to contribute to The Support of the Family Unit. She shows courage and selflessness as she prioritizes her family’s happiness and health.