"There are many things that Martha does, but apologizing isn't one of them."
If you want a hug, Martha will give you a hug. She skateboards, sings, does karate, even eats ice cream. She shares when she has a snack, creates gifts for friends and family, and she reads stories like Harry Otter. But, she does not say she is sorry. She doesn't say it for being mean, making a mess, or treating her family badly. She just doesn't say it!
When she begins to feel the consequences of her actions in the subsequent actions of others, she has a little think. She knows why it is happening, but she just cannot bring herself to apologize. And then, she thinks harder. Finally, she tries the words very softly, and no one hears her. Her voice gets louder and then louder...her family is astounded...they are not sure they are hearing what they think they are hearing.
Bruce Whatley's drawings are as big as Marhta's personality. We watch her smirk, pout, smile, and worry as the story unfolds. Then, with red cheeks and a sorrowful demeanor, she addresses the problem and solves it. Ah, life is good again, but not perfect.
Kids with problems and how they solve them have a very special appeal for the author's intended audience. They can often live vicariously through a character unlike themselves who does just those things they yearn to do. Martha has a lesson to learn and to teach.
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