Dickens & Rumi
Cover of BEVERLY, RIGHT HERE

book

BEVERLY, RIGHT HERE

Kate DiCamillo

After the death of her dog Buddy, Beverly Tapinski leaves home. (Ages 10 to 14)

Ages 12+Source checked

Why this age? The book deals with mature themes including neglectful parenting, homelessness, and the complexities of coming-of-age. While the language is accessible, the emotional weight and character-driven narrative are best suited for preteens and up. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age12+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character2/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Alcohol or drugs1/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

The death of a pet is a significant emotional plot point.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild language used by characters in frustration.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Very light, age-appropriate crushes or attractions.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Atmospheric, focusing on the anxiety of being an unaccompanied teen.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Mentions of alcohol in background character scenarios.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

Includes brief mentions of past physical conflict and verbal aggression from parents.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Beverly shows courage by seeking a better life and opening herself to others.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages imaginative ways of seeing the world through character growth.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse cast of characters in terms of age and socioeconomic status.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Offers insight into the experience of youth independence and empathy.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Compassion, hospitality, friendship, and practical care are central to how characters help one another.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes include seeking help, accepting care, building chosen community, and moving toward healing after abandonment.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters learn to support one another in healthy, constructive ways.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in BEVERLY, RIGHT HERE would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in BEVERLY, RIGHT HERE, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to get it

Find in a libraryBuy on Bookshop.orgBuy on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate, Dickens & Rumi may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereBEVERLY, RIGHT HERE
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS (FULL-CAST EDITION)J.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWSJ.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE (FULL-CAST EDITION)J.K. RowlingAges 12+HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCEJ.K. RowlingAges 13+

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating