The book has a note in it from her grandmother, advising Martha it is for her in the hopes it will be of benefit, but the note is dated three years after Martha’s grandmother was said to have died.

I deeply despised the selfish and abhorrent Machiavellian father as well as the mousy mother who allowed it – which was equally as vile, as was the manipulative and favored younger sister. Based on the title alone I had a feeling I would like this one, who doesn’t adore books about books and libraries after all? Martha was an outspoken girl, whom I don’t think would turn submissive, when in charge of her Father in infirmity.Kathryn Schulz has a singular way of turning a familiar idea around and around until it becomes cosmic, geological, wondrous. Through Martha a great discussion about self-care could be explored and really help readers think about their own lives. The book is mainly told in the present but there are a few chapters that show you Martha’s childhood as well as the stories that she told her Grandmother. It is easy to dislike Martha in the beginning because she lets others walk all over her but her transformation is fascinating to witness. Illustrated in Jeffers' inimitable style, it is a visual delight, and its themes of loneliness and friendship will resonate with children.

I was frustrated, bitterly antagonized, and fully vexed; yet I had to see where this aggravating tale was going. Schulz is never anything but the very best company, speaking nuanced truths from and about the deepest reaches of the heart. There was a feeling of magic in this one, the authors style was charming and so was this entire book! One day, a fairy tale book arrives inscribed by her grandmother, Zelda, also her best friend, who mysteriously died a few years before. I found myself rooting for her this entire book, keeping my fingers crossed that things would go her way.Books can help you to escape, they entertain and educate, and libraries are so important, wherever you live in the world.