Star of the Week — Barney Saltzberg

An earnest hamster's moment in the spotlight is less than stellar - until a squiggly little line and a big burst of imagination let his true talents shine.

Stanley Birdbaum is one happy hamster. It's his turn to be Star of the Week at school! He's ready to share his favorite food, his favorite toy, and, most of all, his favorite thing to do. Unfortunately, the week doesn't quite go as planned. His favorite food is, well . . . unusual. His favorite toy? It seems to be on the fritz. And sharing his favorite thing to do is scary, what with everyone staring and that bratty Polly Seedeater making mean remarks. But with a little encouragement from a good friend, Stanley summons his courage and gets his creative juices flowing. Now that's star power!