Martha Doesn't Say Sorry!
Illustrated by Bruce Whatley
Little, Brown, & Co. Spring, 2009
ISBN: 978-0316066822

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Adorably clad in her pink dress and matching headband, Martha is ready to do just about anything-except say those three little words: I am sorry. But when this sweet but stubborn otter learns that niceties like cookies, piggyback rides, and hugs are for people who apologize our mischievous heroine learns the ultimately rewarding feeling that comes with saying she's sorry.

Parents and kids alike will embrace the hilarious watercolor illustrations and the irreverent humor throughout in this pitch-perfect picture book that offers the gentlest of lessons.

	2009 Parent’s Choice Seal of Approval
	Kirkus: Starred Review
	The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books: Starred Title
	2009 Indie Bound Next List Selection

"Berger is a sly, sharp writer who clearly understands just how much is at stake for her heroine, which should make the message go down easy with readers."
- Publishers Weekly

"Written with simplicity and a strong sense of narrative structure, the story conveys sympathy for Martha’s feelings while outwardly focusing on how she acts and what she wants.  Both adults and children will enjoy the droll humor and good storytelling in this well-designed picture book."
- Booklist

"For every mother that worries that her child might not pass the Emily Post test, Martha is the perfect little otter.  Perfect except when she wont say, ‘I’m sorry.’  The delightful illustrations enhance the enjoyment that everyone will share by reading."
- IndieBound

"An enjoyable introduction to what could be a new beloved character."
- Kirkus Review

“There is not a single preschool, elementary, or public library that will not want a copy of this completely charming and utterly on-point picture book about the resistance to and need for apologies! Very Highly Recommended.”
-Toni Buzzeo, Library Media Specialist

The New Yorker
October 19, 2009
The Defiant Ones
By Daniel Zalewski
"Martha Doesn't Say Sorry!", about a stubborn otter, emphasizes the pragmatic reasons for apologizing.  (Among other things, your mom won't give you another cookie until you do.)"

Children's Writer Newsletter
December 2009
Preschoolers Forge Ahead with Curiosity and Spunk
By Toni Buzzeo
"The humor comes from the way Samantha accurately captures Martha's stubbornness, her (ultimate) regret, and her decision to do the right thing. Martha is not perfect, but she's learning, and really that's all we can ask for."