Mother Quote by Beverly Cleary
““Mother,” said Ramona urgently. This time she stepped into the hall. “Unless we get a ladder (Go back to your room, Ramona) and break the window so we can unlock it,” Mother continued, speaking with one sentence inside another, the way grown-ups so often did with Ramona around. “But Mother,” insisted Ramona even more urgently. “I have to—” “Oh, dear, I might have known,” sighed Mother.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary, 1959
Children’s urgency and adult logic clash, leading to chaotic but loving problem‑solving.
In simple terms: Kids and adults often misunderstand each other.
Listen and clarify before acting.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- home emergencies
- conflict resolution
- teaching patience
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can adults better hear children’s needs?
- What strategies help resolve urgent family issues?
Adults may dismiss children’s urgency.