I was shocked how many things I still remembered, and how many behaviors I have observed in the 10-year-old in my life. This story is true and immense, forgiving and small, and completely unforgettable. In such times, we remember that child we were, and call upon their resourcefulness. I would add that we wish it for the child inside ourselves, because life can be cruel and out of our control. Could that nine-year-old boy have imagined this 46-year-old man whose wife died last year, who is now dating a divorcee with a 10-year-old child? Would it surprise him to know that he still relates so keenly to these ordinary feelings of injustice, abandonment, and loneliness that animate these letters? I remember thinking as a child that at times, Leigh’s growing wisdom was something adults want for kids, rather than something that felt true to the character. One day his teacher assigns a letter-writing project, and Leigh chooses to write to Mr. Struggling to make friends and deal with his anger toward his absent.
After his parents separate, Leigh Botts moves to a new town with his mother. I remember at the time it felt a little bit like cheating, because the epistolary format lends itself to fast page turning. Beverly Clearys Newbery Award-winning book explores the thoughts and emotions of a sixth-grade boy, Leigh Botts, in letter form as he writes to his favorite author, Boyd Henshaw. I read about the passing of Beverly Cleary yesterday, and I was reminded of this book that was a favorite of mine when I was a child.
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