At sixteen, Melissa Austin has always worked hard to make things go her way. As the school year begins, her grades are up and she's even landed a coveted spot on the high school Brain Bowl team. She and her best friend, Jory Delaney, are determined to have the best junior year ever. 
 
Then suddenly Melissa must face some devastating news about her health. At first she refuses to accept the doctor's diagnosis, but as her illness gets worse she feels toward her family and especially Jory help her find the inner strength and courage to face the mysteries of living and dying.