Bonamici Honors Oregon Author Beverly Cleary on 100th Birthday

WASHINGTON, DC [04/12/16] – Today, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) honored author Beverly Cleary on her 100th birthday by submitting the following statement to the Official Congressional Record. You can download a photo of Bonamici at the St. Helens Public Library with Cleary books here.

“Today, treasured children’s author Beverly Cleary turns a remarkable 100 years old. Born in McMinnville, Oregon, Beverly Cleary later moved to Northeast Portland. Her neighborhood there, especially Klickitat Street, became the setting for her series featuring Henry Huggins, Ramona Quimby, and countless other characters who continue to hold a special place in the bookshelves and hearts of parents, children, and librarians around the world.

“Cleary’s books spoke to generations of children from Oregon, across the country, and around the globe. Many of her stories were inspired by her own childhood in Northeast Portland, and almost everyone can identify with the imaginative Ramona or the studious Beezus—or a little bit of both. Although Cleary’s stories evolved as our nation changed, her stories about a family working hard to make ends meet or facing the challenges of adolescence are timeless in their representation of childhood for so many young people.

“Cleary’s love for her characters and respect for her young audience are evident in the national traditions she created. I am proud to honor her 100th birthday today, and look forward to watching her legacy continue to grow and flourish as she inspires a new generation of readers.”

###