Contents
The Halloween Party
Overview
Summer attends Savanna’s exclusive Halloween party and is pressured by Savanna and Henry to stop hanging out with August in exchange for popularity and Julian’s interest. Uncomfortable with their cruelty, Summer quietly leaves. The moment clarifies Summer’s values, setting her apart from the popular clique and affirming her loyalty to August.
Summary
Summer is excited to be invited to popular girl Savanna’s Halloween party, even though she is not part of the popular group. Savanna warns her not to wear a costume and not to brag about the invitation, signaling the party’s exclusivity.
At the party, Savanna greets Summer by joking about August, implying he would not need a mask. Surrounded by popular kids, Summer soon finds Savanna and Henry hovering, asking why she spends time with “the Zombie Kid.” Savanna frames it as friendly advice: Summer could be more popular if she stopped hanging out with August, and reveals Julian wants to ask Summer out.
Pressed to choose between their group and August, Summer feels uncomfortable. Instead of engaging, she excuses herself to the bathroom and calls her mom to pick her up. She slips out without saying goodbye, avoiding a confrontation or acceptance of their terms.
Outside, the Halloween Parade is in full swing with crowds and costumes. Summer notices there is no unicorn, a quiet nod to the costume she sacrificed by attending the party. Her early exit underscores her decision to reject shallow popularity and remain loyal to August.
Who Appears
- Summer DawsonInvited to Savanna’s party; pressured to drop August for popularity; rejects it and leaves early.
- SavannaPopular host who suggests Summer abandon August and hints Julian wants to date her.
- Henry JoplinSavanna’s boyfriend; joins in pressuring Summer about befriending August.
- Julian AlbansPresent at the party; positioned as potential boyfriend to entice Summer away from August.
- Summer’s momResponds to Summer’s call and picks her up discreetly from the party.