Race to the Sun

Protagonist Nizhoni Begay, a Navajo seventh grader, describes her ability to “see monsters,” identifying a man attending her middle school basketball game, who at first appears to be totally normal, as a monster. She notes the instinctual way others avoid him and reflects on the newness of her monster-detection ability. She touches a turquoise pendant for bravery, despite knowing that she’s not supposed to wear jewelry during basketball games. She reflects on how bravery is a constant battle during a difficult school year and how her choice to transfer from public school to ICCS (an Intertribal Community Charter School) has not increased her popularity, even if the school is entirely attended by other Native American kids.

Nizhoni’s coach shouts to get her attention; Nizhoni has been ignoring the game. Despite her distraction, Nizhoni insists that she can take the last, game-winning shot. Nobody else has much faith in her—not even her best friend, Davery—but nobody else wants to take the shot either. Nizhoni imagines her glory, but the monster’s eyes turn red at the last second, distracting her, and she misses the pass.