The book starts with one of The Cool Kids treating Natalie's friend badly at school. The Cool Kids are a group of mean girls that Natalie and her friends encounter on a daily basis. Unfortunately, there's a school treat she misses, followed by a surprise party disaster all set up by The Cool Kids. Early chapters all contain some kind of trouble set up by The Cool Kids. This ultimately makes Natalie and her friends feel left out. Natalie and her friends are invited to a surprise party after lunch, but they don't get the surprise they are expecting. The hallway leading to the party is oddly empty. The three friends arrive at the teacher's classroom to see the party is almost over. They were told the wrong time and the party had started without them. Natalie and her friends are angry and retreat outside to play alone. Natalie arrives home feeling defeated after a day of disappointments. Her mom takes her someplace special and reminds her how bright the light inside her is. She uses her talents to make a gift and when she gives that gift, it is the best feeling in the world. Natalie learns that you need to shine bright so others who have lost their way, can still see in the darkness.