Deedy, C. (2009). Martina the Beautiful Cockroach. [New York]: Scholastic.

Exposition:

Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach, is ready to get married, and all the women in her family offer things to help make her more beautiful.

Conflict:

Abuela suggests she pour coffee on each suitor’s shoes to help Martina choose a good husband, but Martina is unsure about it.

Rising Action:

As the suitors arrive, Martina follows Abuela’s advice, and she is shocked by the poor reactions of each potential husband.

Climax:

Just when Martina is about to give up on finding a suitable husband, she sees a very handsome mouse under her street lamp home.

Falling Action:

Although she is instantly smitten, Martina takes the cup of coffee to test Abuela’s advice.

Resolution:

When the mouse spills the coffee on Martina’s shoes they realize they are made for each other.

Illustrations:

The beautiful illustrations add much to the development of the story. Each character is developed both by the text, but even more through the detailed pictures of each one. Many details of the setting are also enhanced through the illustrations and backgrounds.