Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have all your decisions made for you? What you wear, how much you can eat, or even what job you will have? Able Smith is about to turn sixteen, and this means the Life Line Marking process is close at hand. In this society, young people's place in society in decided by the Tree of Life. The Tree of Life has infiltrated every part of Able's life. He knows his father was forever changed because of The Tree, and as Able's birthday approaches, the thought of his own future haunts him. When the Tree of Life takes control of Able's existence, his entire future is at stake. While he finds deeper meaning about who he is, the knowledge will come a great cost.