Oliver smiled to himself. After the librarian whod gifted him the inventors book, Ms. Belfry was the kindest adult hed ever met. Her enthusiasm was like a bulletproof shield Oliver could wrap around his shoulders, deflecting the rest of his classs cruel words. He settled into the class, more at ease than hed been in days.

*

Sooner than he was expecting, the bell rang for the end of the day. Everyone hurried out, running and shouting. Oliver collected his things and made for the exit.

Oliver, Im very impressed with your knowledge, Ms. Belfry said when she ran into him in the hallway. Where did you learn about all these people?

I have a book, he explained. I like inventors. I want to be one.

Do you make your own inventions? she asked, looking enthusiastic.

He nodded but didnt tell her about the invisibility coat. What if she thought it was silly? He wouldnt be able to cope with seeing anything resembling mockery on her face.

I think thats fantastic, Oliver, she said, nodding. Its very important to have dreams to follow. Who is your favorite inventor?

Oliver recalled Armando Illstroms face in the faded picture in his book.

Armando Illstrom, he said. Hes not very famous but he invented lots of cool things. He even tried to make a time machine.

A time machine? Ms. Belfry said, raising her eyebrows. Thats exciting.

Oliver nodded, feeling more able to open up thanks to her encouragement. His factory is near here. I was thinking about going to visit him.

You must, Ms. Belfry said, smiling her warm smile. You see, when I was your age, I loved physics. All the other kids teased me, they didnt understand why I wanted to make circuits instead of play with dolls. But one day, my absolute favorite physicist came to town to record an episode of his TV show. I went along and spoke to him afterward. He told me to never give up on my passion. Even if other people told me I was weird to be interested in it, if I had a dream, I had to follow it. I wouldnt be here today had it not been for that conversation. Never underestimate how important it is to receive encouragement from someone who gets you, especially when it seems as though no one else does.

Ms. Belfrys words struck Oliver powerfully. For the first time that day, he felt buoyant. He was now completely determined to find the factory and meet his hero face to face.

Thanks, Ms. Belfry, he said, grinning at her. See you next class!

And as he hurried away with a spring in his step, he heard Ms. Belfry call out, Always follow your dreams!

CHAPTER THREE