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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,”…” quote by Beverly Cleary
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““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.””

Beverly Cleary

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.

Key Takeaway

Listen and clarify before acting.

Themes

communication family misunderstanding growth

Mood

frustrated affectionate

Type

narrative teaching

When to use this quote

  • home emergencies
  • conflict resolution
  • teaching patience

Key Concepts

developmental psychology parent‑child dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can adults better hear children’s needs?
  • What strategies help resolve urgent family issues?
A Different Perspective

Adults may dismiss children’s urgency.

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