Maya is having a problem following one of her mama’s rules. It involves her Aunt Trudy, who expects a kiss and a hug each time she visits.

Aunt Trudy makes Maya feel uncomfortable when she demands a kiss and a hug. To avoid her aunt, Maya runs away to the forest to hide when she knows Aunt Trudy is coming to visit.

On her way home, Maya bumps into Mrs. Morales. She decides to share her problem with Mrs. Morales in hopes that Mrs. Morales can help find a solution to her dilemma.

Mrs. Morales listens patiently as Maya describes what is bothering her. Mrs. Morales offers Maya a way to make both her mama and Aunt Trudy happy, and sends Maya own her way to discuss it with her mama for her approval.

Will Maya’s mother be willing to hear Maya and accept her reasoning for not wanting to kiss and hug Aunt Trudy?

Rules are Rules is a beautifully illustrated hardcover book that presents the readers with a delightful reading experience. Unfortunately, Maya’s story is one that holds an inner darker meaning. I had trouble when I read Maya’s story, and I reread it three times and got the same feeling each time. I felt there was a deeper, more evil meaning to Maya’s feelings toward her Aunt Trudy. Parents should read this book first before they present it to their young readers.