Almost-eight-year-old Winona, living in turn-of-the-twentieth-century Minnesota, knows she has a special red dress and lots of friends for her birthday party, but she wonders if she will really get the pony that she is longing for.
Kameeka yearns to continue her hula hooping competition with her rival, Jamara, rather than help prepare for Miz Adeline's birthday party, and "the itch" almost ruins the party before the girls learn who the real winner is.
On Halloween, Melly is invited to Cousin Malberta's home for a surprise, but as she walks there on a beautifully spooky evening, she is followed by increasing numbers of creatures that may actually be frightening.
Kylie Jean's grandparents fiftieth wedding anniversary is on Valentine's Day, and the whole family is planning a surprise party--but Kylie also wants her class to spread valentine cheer to Oak Manor, the local assisted living facility.