Henry and Beezus

Reach for this book when your child is fixated on a 'must-have' item and needs to understand the grit, patience, and occasional setbacks involved in working toward a big goal. Henry Huggins is desperate for a bicycle, but instead of a quick fix, he faces a series of humorous and humbling obstacles that test his resolve. While the setting is mid-century suburban, the core experience of saving money and managing expectations is timeless. Beverly Cleary captures the nuances of childhood social dynamics, particularly the supportive but sometimes competitive friendship between Henry and Beezus. It is an ideal choice for elementary-aged readers who are beginning to navigate financial responsibility and the reality that things don't always go according to plan. Through Henry's mishaps, children see that perseverance is often messy, but the sense of accomplishment at the end is worth the wait.