“You, Michael?” Some of his classmates taunted him. “Michael wants to sing. Maybe through the hole in its heels,” another teased, and the pupils laughed.
“Let’s show some respect, everyone,” Mr. Adegbenro cautioned, silencing the teasing, and then he urged Michael to step forward.
Instead, Michael sat back, his head bowed. His self-doubt and second thoughts were palpable.