Wayside School Beneath the Cloud of Doom (Wayside School 4)

Oppositosis

Eric Ovens wasn’t the only one who had noticed that Kathy had become nice. Others, too, began to notice her odd behavior.

“I like your picture,” Kathy told Bebe.

“What’s wrong with it?” Bebe asked.

“Nothing,” said Kathy. “

It’s perfect. You are very talented.”

It took Bebe a moment to realize that Kathy hadn’t insulted her.

Mrs. Jewls also noticed the change. “Kathy, will you come here, please?” she asked.

Kathy approached her teacher’s desk. “Yes, Mrs. Jewls?” she asked.

Mrs. Jewls smiled. “You have been doing very well, Kathy,” she said. “I’ve noticed a real improvement in your work, and in your attitude.”

“That must be because you’re such a good teacher,” said Kathy.

“Well, thank you,” said Mrs. Jewls. “But there’s a tiny little problem. I’m having a hard time reading your homework.”

“What do you mean?”

“Look at it,” said Mrs. Jewls, showing Kathy her most recent homework assignment.

“What’s wrong with it?” asked Kathy.

“First thing we learned in psychiatrist school,” Dr. Pickle said as he patted D.J. on the head.

“My hiccups are all gone!” D.J. told Kathy.

“Who cares,” Kathy grumpled.

“Would you mind stepping inside my office, young lady?” asked Dr. Pickle.

“But he’s the sicko!” said Kathy, pointing at D.J.

“Please,” said Dr. Pickle.

She entered the counselor’s office. “That beard is really ugly. I guess your face must be even worse, huh?”

Dr. Pickle didn’t get angry. He just stroked his beard and said, “Very interesting.”

Kathy sniffed. “Smells like pickles,” she commented.

“Very interesting, indeed,” the counselor said, and then asked her to sit down.

Kathy sat on the couch. “Lumpy,” she complained.

“I’m going to try a little experiment,” said Dr. Pickle. “I’m going to say a word, and then I want you to say the first word that pops into your head.”

“Stupid!” said Kathy.

“I haven’t started yet,” said Dr. Pickle.

“Sloppy!” said Kathy.