Deadline

In September, Mr. Lambeer assigns a civics project to Ben’s government class. They must choose a topic to explore on their own, with Lambeer’s approval. Then Lambeer comments on Ben’s copy of The Autobiography of Malcolm X. Lambeer doesn’t like Malcolm X, and he and Ben get into an argument about him.

During lunch, Ben and Dallas talk, and Ben decides to go to her volleyball game that evening. Afterward, he drops her off at home, but she doesn’t invite him in.

Ben visits Rudy again and they talk about The Autobiography of Malcolm X. Rudy has a copy, too, and starts talking about his past with Ben. Ben is surprised to learn that Rudy used to be a priest but left the church because of differences in opinion.

Ben and Cody prepare for their upcoming Horseshoe Bend match with their team. Their opponent is strong, but Ben thinks it will “be a good game” (90).

Ben has another dream conversation with Hey-Soos. They discuss the future, Ben’s worries about Cody, and his recent conversation with Rudy. Ben asks Hey-Soos questions, too, but he doesn’t give answers easily.

Coach announces that Sooner can’t play in the Horseshoe Bend game because of a broken collarbone (95).