This gripping novel follows teenager, Phillip Kingsley, through the formative years of adolescence to adulthood. From junior high, to dropping out of school before graduation due to a tragedy, and subsequently being drafted in the United States Army during a time of war.

The story follows the twists and turns of a teenager's life journey guided by the strict, rigid discipline of an iron-fisted, alcoholic father and the gentle love of a devout, religious mother. He faces the paradox of knowing to do what is right and choosing to do what is wrong. The paradox ends with an awakening and transforming experience.