2-3-4 Challenge Book Discussions #2 discussion

We get Martha’s point of view throughout the story. What were the most important takeaways you gained from her narratives? How do you think she really felt about Max?

I enjoyed these chapters because the reader gets to see Martha grow as she gets older. She realizes that she is in the wrong and tries to fix it. I don't think she ever truly loved Max. Martha was so young when Max was born and she became a burden to Martha. She couldn't have found with a child around.

I thought Martha was selfish. I got the impression that she missed Max in some ways, but she didn't understand Max. Martha was not a good mother. The best thing she did for Max was taking her to her grandparents.

Martha was the definition of a narcissist. She only did things that pleased her, she never took into consideration what the impact of those decisions had on Max or anyone else. Max was nothing more than a plaything to her.

Max mentioned that before Jimmy, Martha always took her side before the "boyfriend." There was a deeper connection with Jimmy because they both enjoyed the con.

I’m with Sharon and Anita. Martha was a classic narcissist. Max was just a handy little friend until she became “whiny.” She never loved Jimmy; he just was her perfect mate for having fun and running cons.

Melissa, I didn’t see a single moment of growth. She only tried to fix things when Jimmy left her and she didn’t want to run and hide from Colter. She actually thought she could con him again.

Oh! And I gave her points for sending those birthday postcards. Too bad those were part of the con, too. That made me so sad for Max.

Totally agree that in Martha's mind it was all about her. Everyone else took second place in her world.