Nine year old Herbie learns to cope with his world in spite of all the obstacles he has to overcome. He was born with special problems other kids don't have-terrible headaches, a hard time communicating, and a temper he can't always control. Herbie has learned to distrust everyone, but a teacher he gets to know while living in a group home is finally able to win his confidence. Through all the problems he faces, he learns who he can really trust, and how to communicate critical information when it is most needed. He also finds clever ways to defend himself when bullied. Throughout the story, Herbie draws on his own inner strength to meet the challenges life presents to him.