Dear Mr. Henshaw

Clear, B.  (1983).  Dear Mr. Henshaw.  NY: Morrow.  

In second grade, Leigh Botts writes his favorite author, Boyd Henshaw.  As Leigh grows older, he continues to write Mr. Henshaw, sharing his hopes of becoming a writer, and, as per Henshaw’s advice, begins a diary where he writes about his family and school.  By the end of the book, both Leigh and his writing have grown.  Cleary wrote a timeless story, in which the characters and plot are slowly developed through the writing of letters.  The characters are relatable, and although the plot is not exciting and fast paced, it is one in which a number of readers can identify.  Cleary's style, in Dear Mr. Henshaw, is simple, yet appealing and gripping.  

Here is a link to a trailer for the book: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6A3Sa4gFGJA