For the first time this year, Martin does not want to go to Goose-eye Wilderness School on Thursday — and it is simply because they are going to be working with journals. In conversation with Momma, Martin admits his worry that others will be way ahead of him in reading and writing. What if they make fun of him? But between Momma's advice and a wise short story told by Troy, the apprentice, Martin learns that when it comes to reading and writing, everyone is ready...when they are ready.