Peter Addison, an Assistant Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Wisconsin, is determined to earn tenure. But all his dreams for a successful academic career, a first child with his wife Laura, and a reconciled relationship with his older brother Simon are complicated when he is diagnosed with leukemia. Peter questions his religious beliefs as he struggles with cancer and the temptation to end his life offered by his brother, a psychiatrist and amateur illusionist. During their visit to Ireland, Peter learns a shocking truth about Simon and discovers a humbling reality about himself.