What details reveal the specifics and the inanity of race relations in the American south during the late 1950s? Does the novel suggest any way of resolving the race issue? How does Randy's relationship with the Henry's go against his community?

People a learning that they have to rely on each other for survival. Racial hatred disappears when people are starving. People either become enemies or friends, race has little to do with anything. The Braggs and Henrys, by working together and pooling their resources, are in a better position than most people. Each family brings materials for survival. Randy has supplies and the Henrys have livestock, crops, and fresh water.