In this compelling novel set in New York, Lafayette, the youngest of three brothers of Puerto-Rican heritage, tells of their contrasting struggles to come to terms with the death of both parents. His eldest brother, Ty'ree, abandons dreams of college to keep the family together, whilst Charlie, the middle brother, seems to reject all attempts to keep him out of trouble. Lively dialogue and psychological suspense build up an affecting portrait of a family in crisis.