The summer between junior high and high school is going just as Keith had planned-watching cartoons, working odd jobs, and riding his bicycle. But when a friend asks for help at the local airport, the season takes a surprising turn. Instead of making a quick stop for fuel, Keith is offered a job at just thirteen years old. As the line boy at Barnes Flying Services, Keith takes on a difficult, sometimes dangerous, role.

Meanwhile, his parents are drinking and fighting hard and often. Keith does his best to stay out of their way, but doing so leaves his little brother to cope with things on his own.

Around Keith, the world is rapidly changing. His family's views are in direct conflict with his own reality and potential. In the summer of 1971, Keith sees what his station in life really is, falls in love, and witnesses how it can bring pain and sorrow suddenly and cruelly. But time at the airport is also full of exciting adventures, challenging work, and fascinating characters. What begins as a summer job for young Keith becomes a life-changing adventure.