Dear Mr. Henshaw

Cleary, B., & Zelinsky, P. O. (1983). Dear Mr. Henshaw. New York: W. Morrow.

Leigh Botts enjoys writing letters to his favorite author, Mr. Boyd Henshaw in efforts of becoming a better writer. He begins writing letters when he is in 2nd grade and pens letters all up to 6th gd. Leigh expresses his feelings,writes about his family situation, his parents' divorce and how it has led to his sadness, as well as being the new kid in town. Mr. Henshaw encourages him to keep a diary, and finally finds somewhat closure with his father after so many disappointments and not seeing him for a very long time. He does so by giving him Bandit. He begins to deal with change a bit better. This would be a great read and very relatable for kids, upper elementary level to middle grades, going through similar situations and how things ultimately will get better, slowly, but surely. Clearly cleverly writes about his situation in the form of a diary.