When young Sam Webber's father disappears without a trace, Sam and his mother are forced to relocate to a tough neighbourhood closer to her job. Unfamiliar with his surroundings and intimidated by the students of his new school, Sam recounts details of his life with touching, humorous sincerity. Living in a tiny apartment, he is forced to deal with the legacy of depression that marked his father, and threatens to envelop him. The city remains a cold and unwelcoming place to Sam until he meets Greely, an elderly Black caretaker at his junior school. Through this unlikely friendship Sam begins to heal, as well as confront the racism that surrounds his community and his life. Afternoons of football in the park and greasy meals at the local Little Tavern lead Sam to discover that friendship and warmth can rise even in the saddest of times. This is masterfully written novel full of beautifully drawn unforgettable characters.