About the Book
Ethan arrives at Eastwalk High, haunted by past bullying and his father's recent death. Determined not to be a victim, he is quickly targeted by Mitch, the star football player and bully, who senses his vulnerability. On his first day, Ethan witnesses Mitch and his friends, Winston and Hector, harassing Aaron Caudill, another freshman. Remembering his own trauma, Ethan shrinks back. He meets Jasmin, a smart and kind classmate, who offers friendship. Principal Hill's intimidating speech further unnerves Ethan, subtly implying that weakness will not be tolerated. Mitch escalates his bullying from taunts to aggressive pranks and public humiliation, testing Ethan's resolve. Ethan considers telling his mom but decides against it, not wanting to burden her. Despite trying to avoid confrontation, he finds himself increasingly cornered by Mitch's relentless attacks.
Ethan forms a support group with Aaron and Jasmin, who provide encouragement and strategies to avoid confrontation. Ruth Barnes, his English teacher, notices Ethan's struggle and offers subtle guidance. Mitch's bullying, encouraged by Coach Taylor, who wants Ethan to toughen up for the football team, becomes more intense. Ethan, uninterested in football, just wants peace. One afternoon, Mitch and his crew corner Ethan, threatening a humiliating prank. Something snaps inside Ethan, and he shoves Mitch, landing a punch. Though beaten up, Ethan feels a flicker of hope. The fight's news spreads, and some students begin to see Ethan differently. Jasmin and Aaron are impressed but worried. Principal Hill punishes both Ethan and Mitch, with Ethan receiving harsher consequences, showing Hill's bias. Ethan's defiance sparks a change in him, and he begins to find his voice.
Ethan and Mitch are forced to work together on a school project, revealing hidden vulnerabilities. Ethan learns Mitch's father is a strict disciplinarian who will disown him if he fails to win the football championship. Hector, one of Mitch's friends, secretly yearns to be an artist but is pressured to play football. Observing Hector's artistic side, Ethan remains skeptical, while Jasmin is impressed.
Feeling conflicted, Mitch tries to apologize to Ethan. Winston, loyal to Mitch and influenced by Coach Taylor, sabotages Ethan's bike. Jasmin witnesses and documents the act. She shares the evidence with Ethan, who presents it to Principal Hill, only to be dismissed for lack of proof. The tension culminates in a final confrontation at the Homecoming Pep Rally. Ethan and Mitch, driven by fear and anger, face off. During the fight, Mitch reveals his insecurities and desperation to please his father. The confrontation exposes Principal Hill's past and his bias against students. Inspired by Ethan, Aaron stands up to Winston, shocking everyone. Ethan ultimately walks away from the fight, realizing violence is not the answer. He exposes Coach Taylor's manipulation and Principal Hill's unfairness, leading to a shift in the school's atmosphere.
Mitch faces consequences but begins to heal and rethink his life choices, including standing up to his father. Ethan, empowered by his journey, finds his place at Eastwalk High. He, Jasmin, and Aaron remain close friends. Ethan learns that standing tall is about inner courage and integrity, not physical strength. The story concludes with Ethan resilient and ready to face the future, understanding that surviving makes him a hero. The ending underscores the importance of friendship, self-belief, and standing up for what's right, even when it's difficult.
About the Author :
Brian Leslie is a former Chief Of Police and a police officer for 15 years. He has written many books as an action writer and best selling author.
