"Mr. Gronkle's Busy Day" is a story about a change of heart in people. Mr. Gronkle for the majority of the book comes off as very aggressive and mean towards his own nephew who is visiting him. Mr. Gronkle will not let him play tennis, basketball or play a quiet game of chess with his nephew, Vanderbuilt. Frustrated by Vanderbuilt, Mr. Gronkle takes him for a drive when their car breaks down near a park. As they wait for the repair man, Mr. Gronkle blames the car breaking down on Vanderbuilt. Vanderbuilt was extremely hurt by the morning's events fights back against his uncle saying it was all his fault because he wouldn't let him play or do anything. All of a sudden a soccer ball interrupts the conversation. With an invitation from a child, Mr. Gronkle and Vanderbuilt play soccer for the rest of the day, and Mr. Gronkle is very happy and pleased.