In the 1940s, Douglas Ward is a black boy in the American South. He is not only terrorized by the country's segregation laws, but also by troubles within a family of mixed values. Outside, the world is in tumult, but within the walls of his childhood home, Ward finds pandemonium orchestrated by his belligerent, uncompromising grandfather, Tobias. Throughout his early years, young Ward is consumed by fear, distrust, and self-doubt. Rather than bury his head in the sand, he discovers ways to free himself from the disheartening chaos at home as well as the pervasive negative impact of segregation. The challenge to overcome adversity and take charge of his life seems insurmountable, but he does not give up. Fortunately for Ward, there are several safety nets in his life, like the unwavering support of his maternal grandmother, and his school, which creates a safe haven and foundation for the realization of his dreams. It takes the death of a loved one, though, to trigger Ward's appreciation for his family life and to remind him that home is so much more than just a house.