Two Times the Fun

For the first time in a chapter-book format, Newbery Medal winner Beverly Cleary’s twin characters, Jimmy and Janet, will charm young children with their humorous adventures.

Jimmy and Janet are twins, but that doesn't mean they are just alike.

When we first meet Jimmy, he wants to dig a real hole. He likes to use a real, grown-up shovel. While he's working, his sister, Janet, pretends to be a bird! She likes to use her imagination. But the twins both like silly jokes, new boots, and talking to Mr. Lemon, the mailman.

As Beverly Cleary writes about Jimmy and Janet's doings, the unique understanding of children that she brings to all of her beloved books is coupled with a keen awareness of duo dynamics that comes from raising twins herself.

Originally published as four separate picture books (The Real Hole, Two Dog Biscuits, The Growing-Up Feet, and Janet's Thingamajigs), these are stories that a Jimmy would like because they are so true-to-life, and that a Janet would love because they are so believable.

What happens when one twin loves real things and the other loves to pretend?

Twin Stories: Jimmy likes real shovels, and Janet likes pretending she’s a bird. They’re different in every way—except for being twins! Everyday Adventures: From digging a hole for a surprise tree to finding the perfect home for two dog biscuits, every day brings something new and exciting. Growing Up: New red boots are perfect for splashing in puddles, even when your growing-up feet aren’t quite ready for new shoes. Imagination and Play: Join Janet as she collects her special “thingamajigs” and discover how ordinary objects can become the greatest treasures.