If Ever I Get Out of Here by Eric Gansworth.
Gansworth's novel is a YA novel that leaves a lasting impact. A story of friendship, 70s music, and self-realization, this novel is also about overcoming racial divides.
Lewis, who has grown up on a rez, befriends another lonely teen who just arrived to the United State. Lewis and George, a military base kid, bond over choir and the Beatles. They are in the 'braniacs' section in a deeply divided school.
For the first time, Lewis feels as if he has a friend, particularly as George's family immediately embrace him. Others, however, are not so open-minded.
Lewis learns how indifferent teachers and the school administration can be when he is hassled by one of the school's primary donors. Targeted and bullied, Lewis has no choice but to drop out of school.
All hope seems to have been lost as the blizzard of 1977 with surprising force. Loyalty, friendship, and forgiveness, however, find surprising ways of pushing past the blinding snow of indifference and prejudice.