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• The recommended reading method is to read the original text first, then consult the explanations if needed, and finally, refer to the bilingual version only if necessary.
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• The difficulty level of this article is rated 4.5 by the "Xiao Xian English Reading Companion" AI difficulty analysis system.

The Girl Next Door

Translation: The Girl Next Door

Words:

• girl [gurl][ɡɜːl] n. Girl; young girl; young lady
• door [dawr, dohr][dɔː(r)] n. Door; entrance; path

Image: [Image of "The Girl Next Door" with a description]

Excerpt:

James Baker was only 12 years old when his parents decided to move the family to a new town. At first, James was heartbroken, as he had to leave his friends behind. His mother assured him that it would be okay and that he would make new friends. When James and his family finally arrived at their new home, they decided to go out to meet the neighbors. It was a typical American suburban neighborhood, with each house having a large lawn in the front and a walkway leading up to the door. James felt uncomfortable and didn't want to meet the neighbors.

The first house they visited belonged to an elderly couple. They seemed nice, but they didn't have any kids James's age. The next house they visited had bicycles parked by the garage door, so James thought kids of his age might live there. James knocked on the door, and a young girl named Linda answered. James became nervous and let his mother do the talking. Linda's parents weren't home, but she promised to visit them when they got back.

As they were walking back to their house next door, James looked back and noticed that Linda was watching him through the window. He couldn't help but look at her, thinking she was the prettiest girl he had ever seen. When they got home, James went to his new room and took a look outside his window. He noticed that he could see Linda in her room. He couldn't help looking at her. He thought she was the prettiest girl he had ever seen.

James fell down to the floor and whispered, "Oh, no. I hope she didn't see me." Linda saw him and laughed, thinking James was cute.

Difficulty Level: 4.5

Note: This article provides an engaging narrative about the initial struggles and adventures of James Baker as he moves to a new town and meets his new neighbors, particularly the young girl next door, Linda. The story highlights the importance of making new friends, adapting to new environments, and the initial awkwardness of meeting new people.