Part 1, Welcome to Edgeview: Chapters 1-6 Summary

In Chapter 1, riding as the only passenger on a bus to Edgeview Alternative School, Martin Anderson is reminded of a prison movie. Martin is intimidated by the large bus driver, so he behaves himself on the ride, but cannot resist a rude parting comment as he gets off. The principal of Edgeview, Mr. Davis, introduces himself to Martin and leads him into the school. As Mr. Davis gives Martin a brief overview of the purpose of the school, Martin finds himself unable to control his tongue until someone yells fire.

In Chapter 2, Martin follows Mr. Davis to a room at the end of the hall where some papers on a desk are burning. Another adult comes running with a fire extinguisher. To Martin's surprise, this other adult asks the students what lesson they...