Stella by Starlight Read Online Free PDF

slipped into her own seat, next to the upright piano that Mrs. Grayson plinked out hymns and folk songs and ballads on. The thing was ancient, but Mrs. Grayson managed to work around the keys that were out of tune.
    In the front of the room stood the American flag, which always tilted a little to the right in its stand. On the front wall were silhouettes of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, a map of the world, and a map of North Carolina. A red thumbtack marked the location of Bumblebee, smack-dab between Spindale and Forest City.
    After the Pledge of Allegiance and morning prayer, Mrs. Grayson announced that they had a great deal to do that day, including arithmetic for all grades.
    Everyone groaned.
    The teacher held up a hand. “But first we have something to discuss.” Once she had everyone’s attention, she said, “I know you’ve all heard about what wasseen in the woods last night. And I know your parents have warned you all to be careful. Let me add my two cents. Don’t ever walk alone—stay in groups. Do not go into the woods for any reason. If you see anything that looks out of place, run—I say run —and find an adult. I am always here for you, and you are safe when you’re with me. Any questions?”
    Jojo was the first to raise his hand. “The—those—they—they wouldn’t hurt children . . . would they?”
    Mrs. Grayson looked Jojo in the eye. “Let’s just not take any chances. Is that clear? Now, for something far more jolly, how about we start the day by practicing for the Christmas pageant!”
    While her classmates began murmuring happily, Stella couldn’t shake a sudden feeling of foreboding. Christmas was still a good ten weeks off. Why were they starting so early? Then it dawned on her that Mrs. Grayson was trying to distract them. It sure worked with Jojo.
    â€œOoh, when is it? Where’s it gonna be?” her brother asked, not bothering to raise his hand this time.
    â€œJojo, where you been? At New Hope Church, as always!” the teacher replied. “Christmas Eve, just likewe’ve been doing forever. It’s our Christmas gift to Bumblebee—to our parents and friends and everybody in our community. Why, I remember you weren’t even walking yet when you first played Baby Jesus.”
    Jojo beamed.
    â€œWe all get parts?” Carolyn asked, glancing at Stella excitedly.
    â€œOf course. Every one of you has a part—”
    Randy broke in, “Even all the Spencers?”
    Everyone laughed, and Mrs. Grayson smiled. “Yes, the whole Spencer clan. All thirteen of them. Even little Hetty! Now, I’m going to expect you older students to help the young ones, and please tell your folks I’ll need some bedsheets and feed sacks for costumes.”
    â€œAnd cookies!” Herbert reminded her.
    â€œAnd candy!” Jojo added.
    â€œYes, yes, yes, of course, but let’s start with memorizing our lines before we plan the menu,” Mrs. Grayson said, holding her hands up.
    â€œWhat’s more important than dessert?” Johnsteve asked.
    â€œSome might say music,” she replied. “I want to start with one of the songs we’ll sing that night. Anew one. And”—she gave a sly smile—“we’ll do some arithmetic at the same time!”
    Math and music? Stella looked to Carolyn, who made a don’t ask me face.
    Mrs. Grayson walked over to the piano and started lifting the lid. Before it was even all the way up, she let out a screech. Everyone jumped up. “I do declare!” Mrs. Grayson exclaimed, staggering backward as two fat frogs leaped from the piano. “Good gracious, my Lord!”
    Henrietta, whose desk, like Stella’s, was close to the piano, leaped away screaming. Johnsteve and Hugh and Carolyn were already on the floor, scrambling under seats, trying to catch the frogs. Randy had both hands up high in the air,