Tony and Joel, two boys who will soon be starting junior high, have been friends their whole lives. Tony’s mother, Mrs. Zabrinsky, began babysitting Joel when he was six months old, so the two boys have grown up together. As the book begins, Tony makes a wild suggestion to his friend Joel: climb the Starved Rock Bluffs, a treacherous, sheer river bluff located at the state park. Joel is adamant that this idea is too dangerous, recalling that someone recently died doing so. Tony remains nonchalant and continues to pressure Joel. To get out of the situation without disappointing Tony or admitting that he is “chicken,” Joel asks his dad if he can ride to the state park, thinking that his overprotective father will likely say no. Joel’s little brother, Bobby, begs to join them. His father seriously considers Joel’s request, asking the boys if they packed lunch and asking Tony if he asked his mother for permission. Tony lies that his mother gave him permission, and Joel’s father surprises them both when he agrees, but he makes them promise not to go anywhere other than the state park. He asks Joel, “On your honor?” (8), and Joel promises that they won’t go anywhere other than the park, knowing that he and Tony plan to make a detour at the dangerous bluffs.