 James is a boy who retreats into fantasy to escape the unpleasant things that happen his life. His mother Katie, is mentally ill, and frequently fights with her boyfriend Curt. James never knew his father. He meets Henry, a retired man who plans to sail around the world when he finishes fixing up an old sail boat. James volunteers to help with the boat, and becomes friends with Henry. Katie s condition worsens, straining James s ability to cope.