47 pages • 1 hour read
Dear Mr. Henshaw
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Book Brief
134
Novel • Fiction
California • 1980s
1983
Middle grade
8-12 years
910L
Super Short Summary
Published in 1983 and winner of the 1984 Newberry Award, Beverly Cleary’s Dear Mr. Henshaw marks a departure for the novelist known for her books that celebrate the whimsy and adventurousness of childhood. Dear Mr. Henshaw is an epistolary novel, in which protagonist and aspiring author Leigh Botts narrates his story through letters and diary entries addressed to his favorite author, Mr. Henshaw. Leigh begins writing yearly letters to Mr. Henshaw in second grade but gradually increases his correspondence as he gets older and experiences the pain of his parents’ divorce, endures bullying at school, and feels a crushing sense of loneliness and abandonment. Through his letters, Leigh not only forges a friendship with Mr. Henshaw but also learns how to hone his writing skills and find the courage to persevere through his struggles. Paul O. Zelinsky illustrated the novel, and the illustrations were never changed in subsequent editions.
Contemplative
Emotional
Melancholic
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
42,322 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary is lauded for its authentic portrayal of a young boy's emotional journey through family struggles and personal growth. Readers commend its relatable protagonist and engaging diary format. Criticisms include a slow pace for some younger readers. Overall, it's praised for its depth and realistic depiction of childhood challenges.
Who Should Read Dear Mr. Henshaw?
A reader who enjoys Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary typically appreciates heartfelt, coming-of-age stories about young protagonists navigating personal challenges. Fans of Judy Blume's Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing or Louis Sachar's Holes will find similar themes of growth, resilience, and relatable preteen struggles.
42,322 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Boyd Henshaw
Boyd Henshaw
Boyd Henshaw is a children's author who receives letters from Leigh Botts, a young fan. Without directly answering all of Leigh's questions, he plays a pivotal role in encouraging Leigh to write and reflect on his own life.
Bonnie Botts
Bonnie Botts
Bonnie Botts is Leigh's hardworking mother who supports the family after divorcing Leigh's father. She balances work, school, and raising Leigh, embodying the challenges of being a single parent.
Bill Botts
Bill Botts
Bill Botts is Leigh's father, whose passion for trucking leads to his physical and emotional distance from the family. His presence in the story is largely through Leigh's memories and occasional interactions.
Mr. Fridley
Mr. Fridley
Mr. Fridley is the kind and observant school custodian who looks out for students like Leigh. He offers Leigh guidance and support, providing a positive male role model in his life.
134
Novel • Fiction
California • 1980s
1983
Middle grade
8-12 years
910L
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