David Greene is a talented football player from a working-class background in Pennsylvania. He dreams of attending college and playing football at a high level, but he knows that his family cannot afford it. That's why he is thrilled when he receives a scholarship to the elite St. Matthew's Academy in Massachusetts.
David quickly makes friends with his wealthy and privileged classmates, including the charming and popular Charlie Dillon. He also meets a group of Jewish students, including the studious and talented Chris Reese and the rebellious and outspoken Rip Van Keltch.
David feels pressure to fit in and be accepted by his new friends, so he downplays his Jewish identity and ignores the subtle anti-Semitic remarks and attitudes that he encounters. He even pretends to attend church with his classmates and lies about his family background.
However, when a jealous Charlie discovers that David is Jewish, he spreads the word around the school and encourages his friends to shun and ostracize David. The other students are shocked and appalled by the revelation, and many of them become openly hostile and cruel towards David.
David's life becomes a nightmare as he is subjected to insults, taunts, threats, and physical attacks. His grades suffer, his football performance declines, and his relationships with his friends and girlfriend are shattered. Chris, Rip, and some other sympathetic students try to support David and stand up against the bigotry, but they are outnumbered and powerless.
In the end, David decides to leave St. Matthew's and return home, despite the loss of his scholarship and his dreams. He confronts Charlie and tells him that he will never forget the pain and injustice that he has endured. Chris and Rip give him a heartfelt goodbye and promise to stay in touch. David boards a train and looks out the window, pondering his uncertain future and reflecting on the lessons he has learned about identity, prejudice, and courage.