Martha Says It with Flowers

K-Gr 2 Based on Susan Meddaugh's characters and a PBS teleplay by Peter K. Hirsch, this tale reveals the verbose pup's thoughtful side. Her frustrated efforts to please Grandma Lucille result in a crumpled, chewed, drool-decorated hat, and helpful Martha decides to make up the loss with a nice gift for her birthday. Unfortunately, the dog's tastes don't quite match Lucille's. Not a card (mislabeled "Happy 100th Birthday"), a lovely half-eaten apple inhabited by a worm, or a slab of bacon (surely the "perfect" present) is just right; therefore, Martha vainly attempts to keep flowers fresh in a basket for a party present. Speech bubbles again accentuate Martha's conversational flair, and the large, uncluttered pictures follow the pup's efforts to show how truly considerate she can be. Not forgotten are details of Martha's typical doglike temptationsoccasional treats and readiness for a nap. Cartoon art includes paw prints marking off days on the calendar and Martha's personalized signature. Fans of the TV series and the original books will recognize favorite characters in a familiar setting. The book also includes a summary of past history: Martha's first efforts to speak."Mary Elam, Learning Media Services Plano ISD, TX" Copyright 2010 Media Source Inc.