Not Invited

By Aleena Wadsworth

(Based on a true story)

The author lives in Idaho, USA.

girls at school handing out invitations

My birthday party is next week! I hope you can come.

two girls talking together

My mom said I could only invite five friends. Sorry.

mom talking to daughter, daughter looking sad

Hi, Becky! How was—

girl crying on couch

Sweetie, what’s wrong?

Kristie’s having a party, but I’m not invited.

mom hugging daughter

I feel so left out.

That’s really hard. I’m sorry your feelings are hurt.

mom and daughter sitting on couch

It’s not fair!

Maybe there’s a reason we don’t know about.

girl praying at bedside

Dear Heavenly Father, please help me forgive Kristie for not inviting me.

girls talking at school

The next day …

Hi, Kristie.

Hi, Becky. Sorry I couldn’t invite you to my party.

girls playing jump rope

It’s OK. Do you want to jump rope with me?

mom and daughter making birthday cards

A few months later …

Time to plan your birthday party! Who are you going to invite?

Kate and Jenny and Latisha. And …

girl writing birthday cards

Kristie didn’t invite me to her party. But she’s still my friend.

girl handing out birthday cards at school

Do you want to come to my party, Kristie?

Yes! Thank you for inviting me!

Illustrations by Casey Nelson