Miss Brilliant is full of ideas. With her students she celebrates everything: teeth, corn, mummies, spiders -- and plays!

Only José isn't interested in "Mary Had a Little Lamb," or being a Brilliant Player, or even his surprise role.

But as José learns about drama and tension and working with his classmates, he finds that he, too, has his own special place in Miss Brilliant's class and in her heart.

Aliki has created a memorable teacher and a class full of personalities that all readers will want to join.