Content Warning: This section of the guide contains descriptions of depression, suicide, gun violence, and substance misuse.

Kayla Reed meets with the school guidance counselor, Mr. Kerr, about her prospects for applying to an art school. Ever since her parents got bar code tattoos seven months ago, her father has fallen into a deep depression that prevents him from functioning or going to work. As a result of the family crisis, Kayla’s attendance in her computer classes has suffered. Because her transcripts show her lack of computer skills, Mr. Kerr does not believe that Kayla has a chance of being accepted or receiving scholarships from her chosen schools. He tells her that she might not even graduate high school despite her exceptional grades in every other subject. Kayla leaves the meeting feeling dejected and crosses paths with a fellow classmate named Mfumbe Taylor. He offers her gum to lift her spirits. Afterward, Kayla attempts to skip the remainder of the school day but is thwarted.

Kayla’s friend, Amber Thorn, consoles Kayla after hearing the bad news about Kayla’s art school prospects. Amber then reveals her brand-new bar code tattoo; today is her 17th birthday, and everyone who is 17 or older has been getting the tattoos.