I devoured the series as a child. Spent many days immersed in the pages of the North Hills Library copies of the Beezus and Ramona series by Beverley Cleary. My love for these books is something only another fan could understand and when I heard that a movie was being made I cringed a little.
Sometimes things are better left as is. Forty some years of Ramona on a page- seemed a comfortable spot for her , no? I do, however have a daughter of the " Ramona enjoying age." I have passed down this love for Ramona Q and family by reading her tidbits of the novels before bedtime. We've discussed at large the antics of the " pest " and laughed at the adventures she found herself in. I myself see a bit of Ramona in both of my girls. Something whimsical and free, something that's a part of ME.
My sister and I took the girls to see the movie. I prayed to the movie Gods as I entered the theatre. " PLEASEDON'TRUINTHISFORMEPLEASEDON'TRUINTHISFORME." All the while smiling at my daugthers.
I left the movie pleasantly surprised. I had laughed, I had cried, I had related and felt a surprising warmth about the whole movie. While Ramona on the page and in my mind- is where my heart remains. This movie captured the essence of Ramona, the love of her family and the free spirit that we often times squash in little ones. I was happy to see one of my favorite actresses, Ginnifer Goodwyn playing the role of Aunt Bea and cried thinking how much my sister was like her. How important family relationships truly are.
The big screen- is worth a peek. Ramona in book format- a must experience. Beverly Cleary held out from what I hear, for years and years. Refusing to make a movie out of the series. She made a good choice to wait this long. The movie is perfect for our times and speaks to many true to life situatins that many of us as families face these days.
