She is about to inherit a baby brother, a fact that confuses her enough without her grandma telling her that he is a cute little monkey, forgetting that 5-year-olds are quite literal creatures.

As we follow Junie's journey through life with her alternating best friends, Lucille and Grace, and her loving grandpa, attentive mother, and frustrated teacher, we begin to understand and love this unique personality.

Kamilah Lay totally aces the role as the inimitable Junie. It is rare to see a young actor and singer with such stage presence and talent. Her classmates, played by the rest of the awesome cast, include Alison Pogoreic, Payton Wade, Timothy Wade and Matthew Welden, all of whom memorably individuated their characters.

From the boastful Lucille to the earnest Grace, from the pseudo-macho Jim to the overly sensitive William - all struck a chord as we remembered our early school years and their unique challenges.

We remembered our fantasies, our doubts, our confusions, our joys, our disappointments, our changing friendships, our anxieties when encountering new situations.

Junie's strength is impressive in the midst of change and adaptation, and though she is quite self-centered as are most 5-year-olds, she also has a loyalty and resilience that is evidenced in her relationships and her capacity to forgive and adapt.

Beth Mulkerron as Mom, Rick Pendzich as Dad and the Principal, Robert Spencer as the cherished Grandpa and Elaine Wiley as the teacher and Grandma - all were energized and credible in their roles.

Spencer was especially endearing as the beloved grandparent whom Junie could turn to when life presented seemingly insurmountable problems.

Ensemble numbers were well-choreographed (Molly Rhode) and harmoniously tuneful (Paul Helm).

The set design and costuming (Brandon Kirkham) afforded a pastel banquet for our senses. The musical numbers were varied - some showy, others poignant, all of them satisfying.

The rhythm of the show never faltered, moving smoothly from one scene to the next - Junie's bedroom, Grandpa's bathroom (where they fixed the toilet together), the classroom, the Principal's office and the school bus.

Beautifully directed by John Maclay, this show deserves one full house after the other.

Among the many worthy First Stage productions, this is decidedly one of the best. Playwright Joan Cushing has created an enticing story, and because this play has elicited so much interest, the run has been extended to Nov. 15.

Call the box office at the Marcus Center at 414-273-7206 for times and tickets.