In The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963, in what unexpected ways did the trip south change Byron?

When the novel opens, Byron seems headed into a downward spiral. Although he has a solid family that promotes good values in their children, Byron is a bored, restless teenager who joins his friends in getting attention by causing trouble. He bullies other kids and is unkind to his little brother, Kenny.
Although Byron does not think he is endorsing his family’s plan, he finds himself getting involved in more positive activities. The biggest change may be in his relationship with Kenny. Even though he still enjoys teasing and mocking him, when the situation turns serious, he leaps to his aid. This occurs when Kenny goes swimming at the whirlpool and starts to get sucked under. Byron jumps into the water, risking his own life to save his brother, who now sees him as a hero.
The church bombing also shakes him to the core, as he realizes that the evil in the world kills little children right in their town. Over the summer, Byron learns to value his family and the love that brings people together. The reader can be sure that Byron will be on track for achievement when he returns home.