In two little houses,
on two little hills,
lived two best friends

So begins the story of Rita and Ralph. Every day they meet to play beneath the apple tree. It’s always fun and games – until one roundly rotten day when a new game means someone ends up crying. Who knew it could be so hard to say “I’m sorry”?
Just when it seems nothing will ever be right again, a surprising thing happens. The old friends try something new, that isn’t new at all. Something they’ve done a hundred times

Carmen Agra Deedy’s brilliant storytelling combined with Pete Oswald’s spirited illustrations make for a comforting tale of healing and true friendship.

Reviews:

The classic hand game “Mr. Wiggle and Mr. Waggle” is recast here with two best friends who live “in two little houses, on two little hills.”
– Publisher’s Weekly

Taking a common hand rhyme and turning it into a story with a satisfying plot would be a difficult challenge for anyone but for Ms. Deedy’s Rita & Ralph’s Rotten Day it’s a breeze. A marvelous addition to any storytime roster, no matter where you are.
– School Library Journal

Humorous repetition lightens the quarrel, and readers learn that forgiveness is a process.
– Kirkus