Tie Map of Many Clever Features Map presentations begin after lunch, during Social Studies. "Who wants to go first?" Ms. Shelby asks in her encouraging tone. She always sounds like a cheerleader when it is time for project presentations. Deja's hand shoots up before Ms. Shelby even gets the question completely out. "We want to go first, Ms. Shelby" Deja says. Nikki gives her a questioning look. Deja knows Nikki hates this part of a project—getting up in front of everyone to present it. But she ignores Nikki. "Great!" Ms. Shelby says. She is probably happy that she doesn't have to "volunteer" anyone. Deja retrieves their map from the round table and marches up to the front of the class. Nikki gets out of her seat slowly and follows, looking miserable. "Nikki's going to hold the map, and I'm going to explain it." Deja hands the map to Nikki, who looks relieved. She won't have to talk. "Nikki and I live next door to each other," Deja says, pointing to their two houses. "As you all know." She proceeds to point out Vianda's house across the street, and Keyon Denver's house (he plays football at the junior college) next door, and Auntie Dee's friend Phoebe's house, and Miss Ida's house and Mr.
