Maya and the Bench by the Big Oak

Maya has moved across the country mid-year, and at Willowbrook Elementary every table looks full and every seat seems saved for someone else.

A child who feels lonely at a new school

Maya's family had moved across the country in the middle of the school year, and now she stood at the gate of Willowbrook Elementary, clutching the straps of her new backpack.

Everything felt too big. The hallways were loud. The kids already seemed to know each other, laughing in clusters like flocks of birds. Even the smell of the school was different, like crayons and floor polish instead of the old classroom she missed so much.

"This is Maya," said Mrs. Patel, her teacher, with a warm smile. "She's joining us from far away. Let's make her feel welcome."

A few children waved. One boy said "Hi" without looking up from his pencil. Then everyone went back to their work, and Maya slid into the empty desk at the back.

At lunchtime, she carried her tray around the cafeteria. Every table looked full. Every seat seemed saved for someone else. She ended up eating alone at the end of a long table, pretending to be very interested in her sandwich.

At recess, she stood by the fence and watched a game of tag. Her feet wanted to join in. But her heart said, What if they say no? What if they laugh?

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Quick answers about Maya and the Bench by the Big Oak

What is Maya and the Bench by the Big Oak about?

Maya has moved across the country mid-year, and at Willowbrook Elementary every table looks full and every seat seems saved for someone else.

Is Maya and the Bench by the Big Oak free to read?

Yes. Every story on RapidTale is free to read in the browser, with no sign-up and nothing to install.

How long does it take to read?

This story runs 1 chapter — most readers finish in one sitting, and you can stop and return to any chapter using the contents list.

Who wrote it?

Nimra Khan — original fiction published on RapidTale.