Everyone thinks seventeen-year-old Michael Biamonte is a real clown, and in 1958 who would have suspected what was really wrong? But behind the funny facade, Mikeas life is out of control. He canat sleep or focus on his schoolwork, and heas lost his appetite. How can he succeed at track or sing in the variety show feeling as he does? Even his best friend, Frank, doesnat seem to understand. It appears his math teacher, Miss Wustick, wants to make his life miserable, and his classmate, David, is always picking on him. Tony and the guys on the bridge constantly taunt him, and he doesnat think Beverly even cares. How can he go on? Mikeas life isnat worth living. When a suicide attempt fails, he must face up to his fears and begin the difficult road to recovery. Mike learns that there is hope at the end of his tunnel of darkness.