Steven Alper is a normal eighth grade boy who daydreams in class and loves playing the drums, but when his little brother, Jeffery, is diagnosed with leukemia his world suddenly turns upside down.

His parents are too busy and too worried about his brother to notice whether he does his homework or even whether or not he eats properly. When he gets the flu and is sent to his grandparents' house, he feels even more deserted.

The only time Steven feels totally in control is when he is playing his drums, so he spends all this free time practicing. His grades drop so low he is in danger of failing.

Then Mrs. Alper gets sick and Steven must accompany his father and Jeffery to the hospital for treatment. Finally, Steven is able to put his own life in perspective and comes to terms with his brother's illness.