When a series of school vandalism incidents leads to a false accusation against her, Khyber must locate her missing friend to clear her name. Khyber navigates a fractured home life and social isolation at school, finding solace only in her bond with X, a homeless woman who claims to be pursued by secret police. When Khyber is blamed for the destruction of school property, she realizes that X is her only alibi. The narrative follows Khyber as she abandons her familiar surroundings to search the streets of Toronto, facing physical danger and the reality of her friend's disappearance.

Readers frequently highlight the stark, realistic portrayal of urban poverty and the social pressures faced by the protagonist. Discussion often centers on the effectiveness of the friendship between a teenager and a homeless woman as a vehicle for exploring societal neglect. Critics note the direct, unadorned prose style which mirrors the protagonist's own sense of displacement and urgency. The narrative is often praised for its ability to address complex social issues without resorting to overly sentimental resolutions. Many readers appreciate the focus on the protagonist's internal growth as she confronts the harsh realities of the city streets.