Lost Art Of Letter Writing By Ann M. Martins

In Ann M. Martins, “Lost Art of Letter Writing,” One of the protagonists Jennifer, a girl in eighth grade with flawless grades, changes throughout the story. Jennifer was given a pen pal named Alice (Allie). In her letters, Jennifer acts snobbish and self-absorbed. She speculates things about Allie. When they keep writing, she becomes less subjective and learns to not infer things about others.
At the start of the story, Jennifer is snobbish and makes assumptions about others. For example, Jennifer writes, “First of all my name is Jennifer not Jenny. And second, my school doesn’t need your help.” (Pg2 P2) Jennifer was irked by Allie for offering help. Yes, Allie was assuming they needed it, but Jennifer should be more receptive to a kind gesture. She doesn’t see what Allie is trying to say; she doesn’t know anything about Allie or her activity outside of school. All Jennifer recognizes is that she goes to a private school, so Jennifer assumes that Allie is trying to make fun of her. Also, Jennifer writes, “I assume you mean pets,” (p.3 P2) In the sentence it states that she assumed things about Allie. Just because someone says they have animals doesn’t mean it’s their pet. It could be wild animals that are just outside, or a

For instance, Jennifer writes, “You’ll get through it.” (p.12 P3). Jennifer sympathizes with Allie when she finds out she is moving. She gives her advice and is compassionate. She doesn't judge Allie for her parents losing their jobs and she doesn’t taunt her like the kids at school do. Anyways, Jennifer writes, “I handed the envelope with her $$ in it…” (p.12 P5). Jennifer takes money from her cousin just to give it back. It is very responsible of her because she apprehends how tough it is to be a mom with the father having a dependency for something irrelevant to his needs. It is very thoughtful of her. This is how Jennifer becomes an easy going and considerate