The right name for a child is important. No one understood this better than Chance Branch. As he grew to over 400 pounds, the derogatory nickname Fat Chance became unavoidable.
If his problems ended there, it might not be so bad. But life had other plans for Chance-from an embarrassing lisp to a height of nearly 7 feet, he was destined to be an easy target for his cruel peers. The hot summers of southern Missouri, a meager home, and absentee parents offered him no reprieve from the struggle. He has little choice but to suffer and find small pleasures wherever he can.
This is no longer an option when Chip Smith-a bully unlike any other-comes to the high school and challenges Chance's right to live in peace. Laying low won't suffice; he must take control of his life, or risk losing it.
