Set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement, a young woman finds herself at the center of a firestorm.

“This historical fiction novel is a must-have. It keeps the reader engaged with vivid depictions of a time that most young people can only imagine.”—Voice of Youth Advocates

Sylvia Patterson looks forward to high school for all the normal reasons—being more grown-up, joining clubs, and enjoying football games and dances. But in Little Rock during 1957, things are anything but normal. To comply with federal law, the school board has to integrate Central High School, whether anyone likes it or not. Sylvia is shocked when her teacher asks her to consider being one of the first black students to attend Central. It is an honor reserved for very few, but it is also a heavy burden that Sylvia may not be able to carry. She would be separated from her friends, excluded from social activities, and worse, subjected to threats and, possibly, violence. Sylvia is torn between wanting to bring about change and wanting to remain safe and happy.

Before she makes her final decision, smoldering racial tension in the town ignites into flame, attempting to stop the change from coming. And Sylvia realizes that it is up to her and her generation to make it happen.