Dear Mr. Henshaw

Clearly, B. (1983). Dear Mr. Henshaw. New York: Morrow.

Summary:

Ten year old Leigh, is a fan of author Mr. Henshaw and begins writing to him after he begins feeling lonely due to his parents divorce and for his class assignment. He never expected his favorite author to respond and write him back. Eventually Leigh and Mr. Henshaw begin discussing topics as Leigh takes Mr. Henshaw's advice to begin writing a journal. Through letter and journal entries Leigh begins to have an outlet for his feelings and in turn becomes more positive.

Evaluative Criteria:

 Plot/ Setting

What would make a young student write to their favorite author? Beverly Cleary cleverly reveals the plot for this story through a series of letters and journal entries as told through Leigh Bott. The author authentically depicts the struggling relationship between Leigh and his father as he travels the country. The plot will engage those readers who  may feel lost or may be frustrated due to  family issues and show how even through writing they can have a release.  The author is able to give a good description of the setting in this novel, as readers are able to picture Leigh’s neighborhood. The new neighborhood for Leigh allows readers to see the insecurities Leigh has and feel his anxiety about having to make new friends, deal with his parents’ separation and the absence of his travelling father.