This historical novel tells the story of Ronson Allen, a 13-year-old boy in depression-era Appalachia. He is happy with boyish pursuits, like sneaking cornsilk smokes, putting pennies on a railroad track, and listening to his elders rail about politics-until his beloved sister is assaulted, fueling him with anger. When his parents can't seek justice, he takes that goal upon himself, helped by his best friend, Harry. Their childish fantasies slowly evolve into a precarious adult plan. Scared like rabbits facing a fox, they pursue their scheme. The story and a cast of memorable characters paint a vivid cultural portrait of Appalachian life in the late 1930s.