Ways to Make Sunshine

The day before the last day of school and the talent show, Ryan folds programs in the multipurpose room while KiKi practices her MC script. As KiKi begins the script for a final practice, Hannah Wilkerson enters the room. She tells Ryan and KiKi that Ms. Barnes said she could practice in the space, and KiKi at once tells Hannah that they are going to be there for a while. Wanting to live up to her name meaning “leader,” Ryan interjects and tells Hannah that they can take turns practicing.

Hannah thanks her and helps Ryan fold programs. KiKi practices welcoming Hannah to the stage, and Hannah gets up to perform her song. Ryan cheers and claps when Hannah finishes, and even KiKi claps. Ryan tells Hannah that she did a wonderful job and is surprised when Hannah tells her that she is “so nervous” (154). Ryan tells Hannah that she did not think people with so much talent could get nervous, and Hannah explains that “being nervous means you care about what you’re going to do” (155) and that it is okay to be nervous so long as you use it to try your best. KiKi tells Hannah that she can practice one more time and both Ryan and KiKi cheer her on.