In 1956, one year before federal troops escorted the Little Rock 9 into Central High School, fourteen year old Jo Ann Allen was one of twelve African-American students who broke the color barrier and integrated Clinton High School in Tennessee. At first things went smoothly for the Clinton 12, but then outside agitators interfered, pitting the townspeople against one another. Uneasiness turned into anger, and even the Clinton 12 themselves wondered if the easier thing to do would be to go back to their old school. Jo Ann found herself called on as the spokesperson of the group. But what about just being a regular teen? This is the heartbreaking and relatable story of her four months thrust into the national spotlight and as a trailblazer in history.

Mine, theirs, and ours -- Me, myself and I -- Getting ready (May to August 1956) -- Down the hill (late August to Labor Day) -- Try again (three weeks in Spetember) -- Fear (Late September to mid-November) -- Going downhill (mid-November to December) -- More about Jo Ann -- Clinton in context -- The other members of the Clinton 12.