The Real Hole

I've loved Cleary's writings ever since I can remember. Especiall the Mouse and the Motorcycle! So, when I saw this series in the library, I HAD to get it for my little one. Well, in this story, Jimmy wants to dig a hole with a "real" shovel. So, after breaking his plastic one, his father finds one that was used by soldiers to dig trenches. Off Jimmy goes to dig his hole while sis Janet makes up all kinds of dreamy little things that Jimmy can do with his hole. Well, Jimmy will have none of that, "it's just a hole." Pretty soon, the little guy actually digs a big enough hole to do something with it so off his father goes to buy a tree. So now, they have a Christmas tree inside and outside. Sure is a great story - especially for those of us with little boys who really do want "real" shovels and to do "real" things like dig holes for new trees. Great, great book!

In another of her magical stories about the twins, Jimmy and Janet, Beverly Cleary writes about the real need of many children to not just pretend but to do work which is valued by adults. Jimmy is frustrated when his parents and sister think he is digging a hole in the yard merely for fun. Instead, he wants to do something useful with his hole. His father, understanding, provides a clever solution. Do not overlook these wonderful books, too often in the shadow of the better-known Henry and Ramona series!