A Different Animal by Nick Souza

Patricia closes the children’s storybook then asks,“Who is a dog?”Six four-year-olds raise their hands. “The dogs may go outside,” she says.Barking like dogs they crawl out to the playground.“Who is a cat?”Five raise their hands. On all fours they purr creeping out the door.“Who is a snake?”Three slither out.One boy is left sprawled on his back waiting. Questioningly she asks,“Who are you?”He rolls over, in a loud voice announces, “A Vampire!”“The vampire may go outside.”I’m mesmerized.She walks by me and silently whispers,“Grandpa may go outside.”