Chapter 17 Summary

Tom continues with the story of the black boy, Benji Washington, on his first day at Colleton High School. As Tom explains to Dr. Lowenstein, he decides to maintain a low profile amid a student body of southern white teens who openly express their hostility toward the new student. There is an undercurrent of violence, and a football team lineman, Oscar Woodhead, leads the threats against Benji.

To Tom's chagrin, Savannah leads the counter movement to welcome Benji to the school. Tom is unable to keep quiet when Oscar calls her a few choice and bigoted names. The result is a challenge to a fight behind the band hall after school, and Savannah gleefully accepts on Tom's behalf. The whole school is present that afternoon for the fight, including Savannah and the other high school cheerleaders who come out to support Tom.

Luke...