What I was Reading Way Back When: Third Grade, Circa 1983
With the MBS 1980′s dance happening in very near future, and teachers asked to bring in photos and jot down memories of where they were in the 80′s, my thoughts traveled back to when I was in 3rd grade, and more specifically what books I enjoyed when I was 8 years old. I think you may be surprised to see that some of the titles are still popular today!
I when was in 3rd grade I was student in Mrs. Chafee’s class at Memorial School in Wilbraham, Massachusetts. I loved to read and listen to stories and my mom would read to me every night before bed ( a nightly ritual that would continue until I was well into my teens). There are three series that stick out in my mind when I think back to this time.
The first is the “Ramona” series of books by Beverly Cleary. As a kid that was prone to various mishaps and well intentioned actions that would frequently go wrong, I was drawn to Ramona’s misadventures and comic tales. To put it simply, she mad me laugh and I couldn’t wait to read about her trials and tribulations.
Another favorite was teen detective Nancy Drew. I couldn’t get enough of Nancy and the mysterious cases that she was faced with and embraced the chance to solve the crimes along with her. Although the books were first written 1930′s, Nancy’s character of a strong, intelligent, confident slueth is timeless, and still appeals to young readers today.
My last favorite series of book more than likely less well know, but equally enjoyable. The “Olga Da Polga” series by British author Michael Bond ( of Paddington Bear fame )chronicles the life and times of a precocious guinea pig and her various critter friends and human companions. Olga is a teller of tall tales and she entertains her friends with her words of whimsy and turns what could be a very boring existence in a backyard cage into a magical and enchanting world of wonder. Olga is a joy for any reader who loves animals, humor and something out of the ordinary.
