Even though I was so sad to say goodbye to Ramona, I was pleased that the series ended on a high note.
This book returns to the familiar format of the earlier books in the series. It focuses on Ramona, her growing-up experiences, and how she deals with them. In Ramona's World, Ramona makes a new best friend, her friendship with Yard Ape continues to develop, and she and Susan even come to a bit of an understanding. She is more mature and responsible, though she still manages to inadvertently get herself into trouble.
I like that this book also puts a spotlight on Beezus's growing-up experiences. It's her first year in high school, and she is worried about her complexion, she makes new friends, gets her ears pierced, and goes to her first boy-girl party.
Isabelle may not be old enough to really understand some of the Beezus stuff, but I think she can relate to Ramona's struggle with spelling - that is, having to put up with something she has to do, but doesn't like. (In Isabelle's case, that would be Chinese school homework.)
I even picked up a little parenting tip! When Ramona faces a situation in which she turns to her mother for help, Mrs. Quimby says to Ramona, "Cope". I like that! Instead of getting into a wordy reminder to "find a solution" and "work it out yourself" - just one word is needed.
Finally, I like that Ramona's attitude towards Roberta is more complicated now than it was when she was first born. At first, Ramona was all happy and welcoming, but just like in real life, the reality of having a new family member quickly sinks in. Ramona doesn't get so far as to resent Roberta, but she is no longer always thrilled to have the baby around, and it's clear that she understands that she has to share her mother even more now, and she especially values any time she gets to spend with her mother.
As for Isabelle, what she liked most about this book is that Ramona and Yard Ape become friends. I like that, too!
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