Pets are an important motif in Beverly Cleary’s works. In previous novels, Henry Huggins’s dog Ribsy becomes a beloved character, and at one point Ramona even has an imaginary pet lizard named Ralph. The family cat, Picky-picky, appears in this novel and shows up in other novels in the series. What is the significance of the cat, particularly in its reactions to Ramona? Why are family pets important in Cleary’s world-building?

Analyze Ramona’s need for attention, particularly from adults in her life. Examine the scene with Mrs. Kemp and those with her teacher, Mrs. Griggs. What important aspect of child development and psychology is Cleary addressing here, and why are Ramona’s efforts often mistaken as misbehavior?

How are Ramona and Howie different? Will their friendship recover from his refusal to support her in front of the class? Will Ramona’s personality set her up to struggle with making friends in the future?