In this story, a young girl named Sonya is left alone on New Year's Eve while her parents go to the opera. She becomes anxious about having to recite poetry and sing in front of guests. However, unexpected events unfold as mysterious guests arrive, including Santa Claus and characters in masks. Sonya's fear gradually subsides as she learns to overcome her stage fright and share in the festivities. In a separate part of the story, a lost kitten encounters a helpful pigeon who guides it back to its owner. The tale emphasizes the importance of not panicking when lost and seeking assistance from adults while also encouraging children to remember their address and phone number.
Sure, here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The story involves a girl named Sonya left alone at home on New Year's Eve.
2. Sonya is worried about singing and reciting poetry in front of guests.
3. A voice from the television warns Sonya about the approaching guests.
4. Three people, including a man with a rabbit mask, enter the house.
5. They ask Sonya to sing and recite poetry for the family.
6. Sonya is extremely nervous and afraid of performing.
7. Santa Claus arrives and encourages Sonya to read a poem.
8. Pushkin, a man in an Alexander Pushkin mask, joins in and starts reading poetry.
9. The story then shifts to a kitten that gets lost.
10. The kitten meets a carrier pigeon who helps him find his way home.
11. The kitten's owner, Masha Pigeon, is relieved to be reunited with him.
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