Summary

Chapter 1 is divided into five parts. In the first part, Billy tells readers about how he has stopped students who received the combination of his locker from its previous owner frame entering it by putting a diamondback snake in it. He let it go once it served its purpose and he made sure that it did not hurt anyone. He also says that he does not lead a normal life.

In the second part, readers learn that Billy’s father, Dennis, left the family when he was around three or four years old, and Billy does not know much about him. This includes not knowing what he does for a living. However Dennis sends regular checks. Billy also tries to avoid making friends because he moves so often. However, he does “interact” (9) with others when he feels that he has no choice to...