Dear Mr. Henshaw
Cleary, B. (1983) Dear Mr. Henshaw . New York, NY: Scholastic Leigh Botts loves to read. His favorite book is called Ways to amuse a dog, by Boyd Henshaw. Leigh begins to write letters to Mr. Henshaw. At first they’re about telling him how much he likes the book and how he also wants to be a writer. As Leigh’s life progresses though, the letters turn to more of an outlet for his emotions. After some tough love, Mr. Henshaw suggests writing a diary. At first Leigh is hurt, as it just adds to his list of problems. His absent father, his lack of friends, and a lunch bandit are all things he has to learn to deal with already. Even so, Leigh starts his diary. As Leigh writes, he works though the issues in his life. Leigh Botts is a character that many people, who might normally be left out, can relate too. Most stories feature characters with happy f...