On Having Two Kids

I'm thinking about manners, as my kids begin their social lives.

The adult world is one elaborate misunderstanding, next to another, next to another, next to another. This is why we have fiction. We are mysteries to ourselves and to others, and we continuously make mountains from molehills. James Marshall wrote his greatest story, "The Misunderstanding," specifically about manners: George doesn't explain himself clearly, Martha becomes furious, and then the non-problem becomes an avalanche.

Susie has an eye on Mr. Elephant, but she does not ask for a loan. She just grabs Mr. E. Josh does not factor in her age, or consider the option of "using one's words." He becomes irate; the sky is falling. Mr. E. is quiet, stunned, in the middle; he is collateral damage.

Fortunately, both kids are resilient.

We're reading:

*"The Best Place," by Susan Meddaugh. I love the art and the strange humor; also, it's nice to stumble on an original tale.

*"The Witch's Walking Stick," by Meddaugh. (See above.)

*"Bunny Money," by Rosemary Wells. Strong title, and the book itself has a shout-out to Marie Curie.

Happy summer.....

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