Introduces the people, geography, language, customs, lifestyle, religion, and culture of the Philippines.

Although Denique is attracted to Trevor, she feels she must focus her attention on graduating from high school and getting a job so her family can move out of the projects.

"What was Marko thinking training for the track meet alone in the early hours of the morning? The suspicions and accusations began to fly around Tubman High when he was attacked with a baseball bat and left for dead. Kevin Walker made no secret about his hate. And Trevor Jenkins was spotted at the scene ..."--Page 4 of cover.

Ernesto tries to understand why Naomi puts up with physical abuse from her boyfriend Clay and finds himself intervening to protect her.

"In the alley on his way home from work, Derrick Shaw witnesses a murder. To save his life, Derrick promises not to reveal the identity of the shooter, a former Tubman student. But he feels sick and guilty about his vow of silence."--Publisher's web site.

"Chelsea Spain bridled under her father's harsh rules. But she was growing up too fast. Someone had to rein her in until she had enough sense to handle herself better. Whenever there was the temptation to take a risk, she went for it. Egged on by her immature friends, was it too late to learn that some risks are just not worth taking?"--Page 4 of cover.

"'Someone is stalking me!'...Darcy Wills is in big trouble. And she does not know where to turn for help. First there was the mysterious stranger who started following her. Then there was the threatening note left on her desk at Bluford High School. And now her sister has disappeared. Forced into a desperate race against time, Darcy must take action to save her sister--and her fragile family--before it is too late"--Book description.

Cindy's violent boyfriend adds to her troubles with her mother and at school.