When Chris's parents announce their impending divorce, he initiates a legal maneuver to stop the dissolution of his family. Chris acts as the primary agent of change, attempting to navigate the complex legal and emotional landscape of his parents' separation. He faces resistance from the adults in his life who prioritize their own autonomy over the stability of the family unit. The narrative follows his efforts to exert control over a situation where he feels marginalized and unheard. The story examines the tension between adolescent agency and the rigid structures of the legal system.

Readers frequently highlight the book's focus on the emotional toll of divorce from the perspective of a child caught in the middle. Discussion often centers on the plausibility of the protagonist's legal actions and how they reflect his desperation to maintain a sense of normalcy. Critics note the author's ability to maintain a balanced view of the parents' motivations despite the protagonist's singular focus. The narrative is often praised for its direct approach to difficult family dynamics without relying on overly sentimental tropes. Many readers find the exploration of agency in a restrictive environment to be the most compelling aspect of the work.