Four teenagers from a comprehensive school unexpectedly commit to a grueling tetrathlon competition against the students of an elite private institution. Facing significant social and economic disparities, the protagonists must master equestrian skills, swimming, shooting, and running to prove their worth against the privileged Greycoats students. The narrative follows their training process, highlighting the physical demands of the sport and the logical hurdles of competing with limited resources. Told through a third-person perspective, the story focuses on the group's internal dynamics and their collective determination to overcome institutional prejudice.

Readers frequently highlight the sharp social commentary embedded within the sports-focused narrative. Discussion often centers on the contrast between the working-class protagonists and their affluent rivals, which provides a grounded context for the athletic competition. Critics note that the pacing effectively balances the technical aspects of the tetrathlon with the evolving relationships among the four friends. The book is often cited for its authentic dialogue and the way it captures the specific pressures of the British school system during the period. Many readers appreciate the humor that permeates the story, preventing the competitive elements from becoming overly serious or didactic.