So wrapped up in planning her birthday party that she almost forgets to buy food, Martha rushes out to pick up a tasty scarf, some yummy looking yarn and other delectables—only to discover after getting the provender home that it’s too delicious-looking to wait. By the time her guests arrive, it’s all gone except a mismatched pair of itchy socks. Happily, her friends Flit and Flora are not only understanding, they bring as a gift a large jar of Dust—just the thing to turn a bowlful of sliced, boiled wool into a fine feast. Evans illustrates this tongue-in-cheek debut with simple, dot-eyed figures, reminiscent (except for the wings and extra limbs) of Amy Schwartz’s, and nicely suited to the puckish tone. The menu might not appeal to young readers, but the camaraderie will; pair this with any rendition of “The Little Red Hen” for contrast. (Picture book. 6-8)
