My Own Two Feet

This coming-of-age memoir offers young readers an intimate look at Beverly Cleary's journey to independence as she leaves her family home to attend college in California during the 1930s. The narrative captures that pivotal transition when a young person first steps out into the world, making their own decisions and discovering who they want to become. With the same warmth and honesty that characterizes her beloved children's novels, Cleary describes her college experiences, career aspirations, and the challenges of building a life on her own terms. Young readers will find themselves drawn into this real-life story of determination and self-discovery.

What makes this autobiography particularly engaging is how it mirrors the universal experience of growing up while providing historical context about life during the Great Depression. Children who have enjoyed Cleary's fictional characters will appreciate learning about the author's own formative years and the experiences that shaped her writing. The memoir serves as both an inspiring personal narrative and a gentle introduction to biographical literature for developing readers. This heartfelt account of finding one's path will resonate with any child beginning to understand their own place in the world.