The Unsung Hero of Birdsong, USA

Of the two gas stations in Birdsong, Jake’s is the only one that welcomes Black customers, although the bathrooms and water fountains are still required to be segregated in accordance with state law. As a result, the business is recommended by The Negro Motorist Green Book.

Gabriel confesses to Meriwether that he rode his bike without his parents’ permission. The boy blames his parents for his disobedience because they tempted him by making him keep the bike in his room. However, Meriwether tells him, “Resistin’ temptation builds strength” (98). When Gabriel returns home that evening, he resolves to wait out the nine remaining days of his punishment before riding his bike again.

On Saturday, the Haberlins drive to Charleston for a parade honoring World War II veterans, one of whom is Jake’s brother, Earl. Patrick planned to go with them, but he remains in Birdsong because his mother will give birth soon. When the family arrives at Cousin Polly’s house, Gabriel is struck by the beauty of Helene, their neighbor and Tink’s close friend. Tink teases Gabriel about his interest in Helene and tells him that Helene will be attending the party for Earl after the parade. Polly is irritated because the Haberlins have arrived late, and she snaps at her Black employees, saying, “Don’t y’all gals eat none of that food, you hear?” (104).