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Kind Gentle Quote by Beverly Cleary

“He seemed grown-up, compared to the boys at school, and although he was not handsome, or even particularly good-looking—there were still some scars on his face from the skin trouble he had when he was younger—his face was agreeable because it was so. . . . What was the word? Kind, perhaps. Or…” quote by Beverly Cleary
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““He seemed grown-up, compared to the boys at school, and although he was not handsome, or even particularly good-looking—there were still some scars on his face from the skin trouble he had when he was younger—his face was agreeable because it was so. . . . What was the word? Kind, perhaps. Or gentle. But strong, too. He was genuinely glad to see all of Sue’s family, and when Sue entered the room and he helped her on with her coat, Jean thought he acted as if her sister was someone precious to him.””

Beverly Cleary

About This Quote

Source Book: Ramona the Brave by Beverly Cleary, 1974

The passage describes a young man whose modest appearance hides a kind, gentle, and strong character, evident in his caring actions toward a loved one.

In simple terms: A modest-looking man is kind, gentle, and strong, showing care for a sister.

Key Takeaway

Recognize inner qualities beyond outward looks.

Themes

character kindness strength appearance relationships

Mood

warm reflective thoughtful

Type

literary character study

When to use this quote

  • family gatherings
  • first impressions
  • helping a sibling
  • social interactions

Key Concepts

empathy social perception masculinity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you assess someone's character beyond looks?
  • What actions reveal true kindness?
A Different Perspective

Physical appearance can mislead judgments about character.

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