Emily's Runaway Imagination

This charming coming-of-age story captures the boundless creativity of a young girl growing up in rural Oregon during the early 20th century. Emily Bartlett's vivid imagination leads her through a series of misadventures, from attempting to bleach a horse to hosting sleepovers that spiral into chaos, all while dreaming of bringing a library to her small town. Beverly Cleary's signature warmth and humor shine through as she portrays a bygone era when automobiles were novelties and community connections meant everything.

What makes this story resonate is how authentically it portrays childhood ambition and the sometimes comical gap between big ideas and their execution. Young readers will connect with Emily's determination to make her mark on the world, even when her plans go hilariously awry. Cleary reminds us that imagination isn't just about fantasy—it's the engine that drives real change, making this a timeless exploration of how one spirited child can envision a better future for her entire community.