At thirteen years old, Danny Novak faced challenges of self-acceptance, abuse, mortality, and death. It was the best summer of his life and the darkest days he ever lived. When Danny arrives at Camp Baker in June 1972, he is happy to be away. Away from his mom, his bratty little brother, their crappy house, and his sad life. He is the youngest boy hired to work as camp staff, but confident that he'll fit in. He took the job for the money. His parents had divorced. With no father around and a mother consumed with her own needs, Danny must fend for himself. Danny looks forward to the summer. He is leaving the scrawny bullied kid behind and welcomes a fresh start at being Danny Novak. He took the job for the money, but he really wants a friend. Mark Colby, at sixteen and has a bad reputation ...

At thirteen years old, Danny Novak faced challenges of self-acceptance, abuse, mortality, and death. It was the best summer of his life and the darkest days he ever lived. When Danny arrives at Camp Baker in June 1972, he is happy to be away. Away from his mom, his bratty little brother, their crappy house, and his sad life. He is the youngest boy hired to work as camp staff, but confident that he'll fit in. He took the job for the money. His parents had divorced. With no father around and a mother consumed with her own needs, Danny must fend for himself. Danny looks forward to the summer. He is leaving the scrawny bullied kid behind and welcomes a fresh start at being Danny Novak. He took the job for the money, but he really wants a friend. Mark Colby, at sixteen and has a bad reputation ...