Originally appearing as a series of short stories in a children's magazine, The Peterkin Papers is a collection of tales featuring the hysterically inept Peterkin family. The Peterkins' unfortunate lack of common sense causes hilarious unintended consequences nearly every time they have an idea. They muddle through life's challenges with love and cooperation, but when they come to their wits' end, they know they need help. The Peterkins decide to consult the wise, sensible "Lady from Philadelphia, " who manages to extricate them from their troubles with sensible commonplace solutions.