Snippet #1543640

The final school bell rang and almost all the kids, except Kiara, ran out of the school. “So we are clear on the plan for tomorrow’s essay, Miss Clark,” Kiara’s English teacher said. “Yes sir, I’ll be prepared the moment class starts.” She sent her teacher a warm smile and headed out the school door. “Hey, Kiara! I can’t believe that your going to turn 16 tomorrow! When was your party again?” Kiara’s best friend had been waiting outside the school for her to come bye. “I told you this a million times, Tess. It’s on Saturday. You are so forgetful I swear!” Kiara and Tess were joined by a few more people and they all walked home together.

“Bye Kiara! See you tomorrow,” one of the boys from the group said. Kiara waved a quick goodbye and entered her house, immediately greeted by her mother. “Oh, my baby! Your getting so big! Wait … I thought you had cheer practice after school.” “I did, but coach hurt her leg the other day, and would prefer we don’t practice without her.” Her mother hugged her tight then dragged her to the kitchen. Sitting in the middle of the table was a present, about the size of her hand. “Mom, my birthday isn’t till tomorrow,” Kiara laughed. “Oh, I know. But I couldn’t wait to give this on to you.” Kiara’s mother handed her the gift and Kiara slowly unwrapped it. She gasped at what was in the wrapping. An old, torn field guide to animals. “Mom! It’s perfect! I love it!” Kiara hugged her mom tight and stared at the book. I have to read this, she thought, hugging the book. She gave her mom an ‘I want to start reading this as soon as possible look’ and her mom just nodded.

Kiara dashed up to her room, jumped onto her bed and started to read. “I love this thing already.”