George and Martha

George and Martha is a series of children's books written and illustrated by James Marshall between 1972 and 1988. Each book in the series contains five short stories describing interactions between two hippos, George and Martha (named after the first U.S. president and his wife). The books inspired an animated children's television show which comprised 26 episodes made in 1999, and a musical made in 2011. The television series features celebrity voice talents Nathan Lane as George and Andrea Martin as Martha. Plot The books describe the activities and adventures of best friends George and Martha. These activities include taking dance classes, going to the beach and the amusement park, and playing practical jokes on each other. In a humorous way, the series teaches about friendship. George and Martha sometimes argue, but always make up. Books The George and Martha books comprise the following titles: George and Martha (1972) George and Martha Encore (1973) George and Martha Rise and Shine (1976) George and Martha One Fine Day (1978) George and Martha Tons of Fun (1980) George and Martha Back in Town (1984) George and Martha Round and Round (1988) George and Martha: The Complete Stories of Two Best Friends, with a foreword by Maurice Sendak (1997) Television