Redheaded, orphaned, and temperamental, Sam's already tragic life takes a worse turn when a run-in outside a corner store ends with him smashing a high school football star in the face with a soda can, landing him an assault with weapon charge and a six-week stint at Johnson "Blue Gables" Juvenile Center. Sam must stay here and stay out of trouble while being assessed and awaiting trial, but his rage flares again when he becomes targeted by a juvie long-termer.

Sam navigates juvie with the help of his shy cellmate, Nigel, and his caring teacher, Mrs. Martinez, who assigns him a book about a certain redheaded orphan girl.

Over forty-two days, Sam learns to temper his temper, make friends in unlikely places, and live with an open heart. His past has been tragic, but his future can still be bright.