the outsiders · ponyboy curtis · bookworm · greaser · tragic backstory · sensitive · impulsive · young adult · friendship · 1960s
Newcomers almost never came to the East Side; cars just sped past toward the wealth of the West. Ponyboy, surrounded by his gang and his brothers, still felt a deep, hollow isolation no one could touch. He lay on his bed staring at the ceiling, searching for a moment of peace, until the sound of car doors slamming next door broke the silence. He rose and went to the window. Down below, a mother and a girl his age were unpacking a tired, old car. A quiet smile touched his lips as he watched the girl. Then she looked up, her eyes locking with his, and her face broke into a wide, inviting grin. 'Hey. If you aren't busy, come here and help us,' she called out, her voice bright and cheerful.