Plot[]
The book starts when Howie and his little sister brag to Ramona about their favorite rich uncle coming to town from Saudi Arabia (something Ramona does not know how to say) and he promises them presents (except for Ramona, who is not a part of the Kemp's family). During dinner, Beezus' favorite aunt (from Beezus and Ramona) becomes Ramona's favorite aunt too because she understands how to help Ramona live now that she's 8 and a half, something her own mother can't do. Finally, Howie and Willa Jean's rich uncle comes over and gives Willa Jean an accordion, which she breaks. Ramona now hates Mrs. Kemp and Howie's rich uncle (because Mrs. Kemp expects her to babysit). During dinner that night, Ramona and Beezus trick Mr. and Mrs. Quimby into letting Beezus babysit Ramona (because Ramona has admitted she hates Mrs. Kemp). Although, Ramona ends up nearly breaking a leg after Howie (who feels bad that Ramona won't be coming over anymore) rides his bike (now that his rich uncle has taught him to ride a unicycle). Sadly, Picky-Picky dies at age 10 before Mr. and Mrs. Quimby come home, so Ramona and Beezus risk getting their clothes muddy to dig a grave for him. The reason they did this is because Mrs. Quimby is pregnant and Mr. Quimby says she cannot be stressed or the baby may come out early (which he says is a bad thing, 'cause babies process in the stomach). Later that afternoon the girls read what their name means, and Ramona is horrifed to find out her name means 'wise helper' (because she thinks that means she'll have to help more than Beezus will). At first the girls think It Quimby is a wonderful name (until Mr. Quimby strictly says he will not have an It Quimby in his own home), then Beezus thinks of Lorelei (until Ramona starts teasing Loreliar). Finally, at the end of the book Mr. and Mrs. Quimby decide on "Roberta Day Quimby".