A young girl struggles to navigate the emotional wreckage of her family life following the sudden illness and death of her sister. Meg, the protagonist, finds herself eclipsed by the attention lavished upon her sister, Molly, who is suffering from leukemia. As the family moves to the countryside to accommodate Molly's health, Meg must confront her own feelings of resentment, jealousy, and eventual grief. The narrative, told from Meg's perspective, captures the internal isolation of a child forced to mature prematurely amidst a domestic crisis.

This novel is widely regarded as a poignant exploration of the complexities inherent in sibling relationships during times of crisis. The narrative is noted for its refusal to sugarcoat the darker, more selfish impulses that often accompany childhood grief. Readers frequently highlight the authenticity of the protagonist's voice as she grapples with feelings that are often considered taboo. The work remains a staple in young adult literature for its ability to address heavy themes with clarity and emotional precision.