David is super-excited at the prospect of writing a poem for the Apple Tree community poetry event. As David tries to write about his trains, he also tries to convince his friend Laila to take part too, but no matter how hard he tries, Laila remains determined not to participate. Eventually David, with Grandma Zainab's help, works out that Laila's problem isn't stage fright but more to do with her difficulties with reading. However, David is able to rely on Mali and their friends to find a solution that allows Laila to participate.

Football is cancelled but, worried about what his teammates might think, Mali chooses to help Kobi tidy the shed rather than join Bella and Sam at dance class. However, Kobi hopes that a discovery in the 'Kobi cave' will convince Mali that dance is for everyone.