Cherise, a young Chicago runaway, is placed in a foster home in Northern Wisconsin. She has an escape plan, but is unable to put it into action because of the deep snow of winter. The foster family consists of mother, father, and two boys; one is the twin of a daughter that died of a brain tumor, and the other is the same age as Cherise’s younger half-brother. Cherise finds acceptance with the family pets and with the little boy. She also comes across a diary written by the daughter in the last two years of her life. The entire family returns to Chicago for Christmas to visit with the mother’s former foster brothers and sisters, who have come home for the Christmas celebration. Cherise’s escape plan could work. Should she run or should she stay? The kindness and love of her foster family helps her make the right decision.