Bird, who is in the sixth grade of the middle school of Freedom, Georgia, is not exactly popular. She feels as invisible as "Casper the Ghost." When another apparent loser, a boy named Harlem Tate, moves to town, Bird confides in her next door neighbor, Miss Delphine, her various schemes to win his friendship. Miss Delphine is not only pretty, she finds the best in everyone - including Bird.

However, Harlem, who lives over the tattoo parlor with old Mr. Moody, is not easily befriended. When a state spelling bee with significant prizes is announced for student with partners, Bird, who cannot spell, views this as a golden opportunity for her and for Harlem, who can. What she ultimately wins is not fame and glory, but something much more valuable.

This author has perfect pitch when it comes to the language and mores of eccentric southerners. She likes them. Her excellent, funny story displays this kindly understanding.