Book Series · 2 Books

Leigh Botts Books

In order from Dear Mr. Henshaw to Strider.

The Leigh Botts series is a set of 2 chapter books by Beverly Cleary, published between 1983 and 1991. Written for ages 8–12, most books run about 180 pages. Subjects across the series include divorce, letter writing, and feelings and emotions.

Dear Mr. Henshaw
Strider
Dear Mr. Henshaw
Dear Mr. Henshaw
Strider
Where the story begins

First Book in the Series

Dear Mr. Henshaw
Sale price
$759
Book #1 · Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 1983

Dear Mr. Henshaw

By Beverly Cleary, Paul O. Zelinsky (Illustrator)

A young boy writes letters to his favorite author, Boyd Henshaw, and learns about the writing process and himself.

134 pages· 18,153 words· Est. 2 hour read
5.1/7 Bookroo
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Leigh Botts, a sixth-grader struggling with his parents' divorce and a lunch thief, finds solace in writing to his favorite author, Boyd Henshaw. As Leigh navigates loneliness and anger, Mr. Henshaw's unexpected responses offer guidance and friendship. Will Leigh find the courage to face his challenges and heal? Discover how a simple class assignment transforms into a life-changing journey.
In reading order

Leigh Botts Series

2 books · Published 1983–1991

#1
#1 in Series
Sale price
$759

Dear Mr. Henshaw

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 1983

A young boy writes letters to his favorite author, Boyd Henshaw, and learns about the writing process and himself.

#2

Strider

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1991

A stray dog inspires a boy to run and find hope in unexpected places.

Good to know

Common Questions

How many books are in the Leigh Botts series?

There are 2 books in the Leigh Botts series. It began with Dear Mr. Henshaw in 1983, and the newest book, Strider, was published in 1991.

What order should you read the Leigh Botts books in?

Start with Dear Mr. Henshaw and follow the series order — the books above are numbered #1 through #2.

What ages are the Leigh Botts books best for?

The series is best for ages 8–12, based on the age ranges of the individual books.

Which Leigh Botts book is the longest?

Strider (Book #2) is the longest book in the series at 21,456 words (176 pages).

Which Leigh Botts book is the shortest?

Dear Mr. Henshaw (Book #1) is the shortest at 18,153 words (134 pages).

The people

The Creatives Behind the Books

The authors and illustrators who bring Leigh Botts to life.

01

Beverly Cleary

Author
02

Paul O. Zelinsky

Illustrator

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