An informational insert explains that in 1999, one of the most widespread fears among developed nations was Y2K. However, when the year 2000 arrived, very little disruption occurred (see Context above).

On August 17, 1999, Michael Rosario, a mixed-race Filipino American boy living in Red Knot, Delaware, turns 12 years old. He is recovering from a summer cold and is worried about the reported Y2K computer bug as well as about his single mother’s financial struggles. He steals canned peaches (which his mother likes) from the local grocery store for his survival stash. He is nearly caught by Billy “Beejee” Gibson—the store manager’s son and a local bully. Beejee accuses another customer, teenager Jamar Prince, of stealing instead, and Jamar rescues Michael from Beejee’s unwanted attention.

Later, when Michael heads home, he encounters Mr. Mosley, the Fox Run apartment complex handyman. Mr. Mosley is a family friend of the Rosarios. He gives Michael $20 for his birthday. They notice an odd-looking teenage boy, who asks Michael and Mr. Mosley the year and then runs off.