Clem was a smart girl with big dreams. She wanted to be a teacher when she grew up. But one fall, Clem stayed home from school to help her family.When she went back, her class was ahead, and Clem felt behind. Her friends had left school to work at the chocolate factory. They had shiny new clothes and fun things. Clem thought, “Maybe I could work too!”
Clem got a job at J.G. McDonald’s Chocolate Factory. Her first task was to put candy centers on a belt so they could get covered in chocolate.The factory smelled so sweet! Clem worked hard and earned $1.30 a day. She was proud of herself.
By Christmas, Clem had saved enough money to buy her family a Christmas tree!She decorated it with pretty ornaments and put gifts and candy underneath. Her family was so happy. “This is the best Christmas ever!” Clem said with a big smile.
Soon, Clem got a new job at the factory. She worked on a machine that made swirls and patterns on the chocolates. Her boss gave her a raise to $1.75 a day!Clem felt rich. She and her sister Verda went shopping after work. Clem loved looking at all the beautiful things in the big stores.
One day, Clem heard someone talking about playing music. She wanted to learn too!Clem’s dad helped her buy a shiny silver saxophone. After work, Clem took music lessons every week. She practiced a lot and got better and better.
Clem and her friends started a band. During lunch, they played music for the workers at the factory. Clem loved playing her saxophone while everyone danced and clapped.One time, their band played at a party. Clem earned $5.00 for her music. She was so proud!
