In the fall of 2008, Thomas Clarke's life is turned upside down. His old high school closed the previous spring, and his friends all went off to different schools. So for his senior year, Thomas must go alone to a new school with a rigorous curriculum and an intensely competitive administration and student body. Every move he makes is watched closely, and incredible pressure is put on him to perform at the highest level academically. If that were not enough for one young man to deal with, the national economy teeters on the edge of complete collapse, and the future of his family's livelihood also is very much in doubt. With the support of his family and two old friends (along with a few new ones), Thomas must decide on a prudent response. What, if anything, can bring him any kind of happiness in this high-stress situation? The course of action Thomas chooses is challenging and distressing to some, while challenging and inspiring to others. But does he have the fortitude to follow this course of action for the entire school year?