Clay-Boy Spencer

Clay-Boy Spencer is fifteen when the novel begins. Clay-Boy is the oldest of nine children when the novel opens and his mother continues to be very protective of her children, not allowing Clay-Boy to go hunting with his uncles because she is afraid of losing him once he begins to do man things.

It is unusual for people of Clay-Boy's time to finish high school, let along go to college. However, Clay-Boy's parents are very determined to make sure each of their children are allowed an education to pursue whatever dreams they might have. For this reason, Clay-Boy is encouraged to remain in school instead of getting a job like most young male children. When Clay-Boy prepares for graduation, his teacher suggests to his parents that he be allowed to go to college. Clay-Boy's mother is unhappy with the idea because it will mean that Clay-Boy will...