Here's a breakdown of the story:
* Annie's feelings: Annie experiences all the classic signs of a crush: blushing, daydreaming, and feeling nervous around Jack. She finds herself constantly thinking about him and wanting to be near him.
* Jack's perspective: Jack is a bit oblivious to Annie's feelings and doesn't seem to share them. He's kind and friendly, but Annie worries he doesn't think of her in the same way.
* The dance: The story revolves around a school dance where Annie hopes to dance with Jack. She spends a lot of time preparing, worrying about her appearance and how he'll react.
* The ending: The ending is sweet and hopeful. While things don't go exactly as Annie planned, she learns important lessons about friendship, self-acceptance, and navigating the complexities of first crushes.
The book's themes:
* First crushes: The story explores the unique and sometimes overwhelming experience of having a first crush.
* Friendship and relationships: It highlights the difference between friendship and romantic feelings, and the importance of valuing both.
* Self-confidence: Annie learns to embrace her own unique qualities and feel good about herself.
"A Crush" is a charming and honest look at the world of first crushes, written in a simple and engaging style that children can easily relate to.