The book's an original, no question. Martha's constant chatter appears as speech balloons over her head. If you get this edition in hardback, I highly recommend that you flip to the author's photo on the back inside cover to see a picture of a dog that looks very much as if it might have been the inspiration for Martha's cuddly form. The illustrations are sweet and inticing and Martha says everything you'd expect a dog to say (if neutered). The double page spread of her blowing away the family with an incredibly long speech is particularly impressive. I suspect that if you were to read this book to your little one they would insist that you read every single word that pops out of Martha's mouth. All things considered, this might take some time so prepare to set aside some 20 minutes for a full and unabridged reading of the delightful "Martha Speaks". As for the use of the term, "shut up", (which the family yells at Martha when they canst takes it no more) this is left entirely up to the reader's discretion. If you live in a home where the phrase is considered impolite, you may wish to read it aloud from the book in a silly way, or simply disguise it as the less controversial "Be Quiet" (which I do not, personally, endorse). If this phrase is not considered impolite in your home, let rip and let go.
This is altogether a fine book and an amusing story. This is an excellent choice for those children interested in the intricacies of canine yabbering.