To Peter’s surprise, the Heavenly Hatchers are a hit at the school assembly. However, he quickly points out that this “doesn’t change [his] mind about them” (151), and he still doesn’t want to hang out with his cousins or be seen with them. Flora and Fauna become quite popular at school, especially with Sheila Tubman, who invites them to have a sleepover at her apartment. Howie resists the idea because he doesn’t want his girls exposed to “bad influences,” but after Peter’s parents assure him that the Tubmans are family friends, Howie and Eudora let the girls go. However, Howie reminds the girls that they are not to listen to pop music, read fashion magazines, or watch television. When the girls leave for the night, Mini cries, so Mrs. Hatcher decides to let him have a “sleepover” in Fudge’s room so he doesn’t feel left out. Fudge isn’t happy about this, but to everyone’s surprise, Mini starts talking once Flora and Fauna are gone. He mimics everything Fudge says, just like Uncle Feather, which annoys Fudge. Peter notices that Howie and Eudora quickly get hooked on television.

On Saturday, Peter’s parents ask him to keep an eye on Fudge and Tootsie while they’re out.