Ramona Quimby, Age 8 is a very quick, easy read that seems like it would be perfect for younger readers. Each chapter has its own arc while still being connected to the other chapters, so it's easy to leave off and pick up again. I definitely have the feeling that Beverly Cleary remembers being a kid and can successfully write from the perspective of one because of it.

Some things in the book were frustrating-- not exactly story-telling issues, but more issues of attitude. The Kemp grandmother is frustrating-- she fully expects Ramona to watch her granddaughter for her, and that's really not okay. Kids don't always want to play with other kids, and they shouldn't have to. More than that, though, which is perfectly valid in its own way, is that Ramona's parents didn't take her very seriously when she said her teacher called her a nuisance. I don't know about the 80s, but nowadays, teachers aren't supposed to be mean to their students and parents take that kind of thing seriously.

One final comment - this book is surprisingly dark. I've read other Ramona books before and never noticed, so younger readers probably wouldn't pick up on it, but Ramona spends most of the book deeply upset and unsure of herself. She's never really okay with herself and I found it pretty disturbing. Realistic, but disturbing. Not exactly a feel-good read.