It's 1899 in a small town in Vermont, and the turn of the century is coming fast. According to certain members of the church where ten-year-old Robbie's father is the preacher, the end of the century might mean the end of the world. But Robbie has more pressing worries. Like how to get back at the Weston boys for picking on his simple-minded brother and whether or not to be a Christian anymore. Its tiresome restrictions don't suit someone as high-spirited as Robbie is. So Robbie decides to leave the fold and, just in case the church whisperers are right about the end of the world, live life to the fullest. His behaviour does nothing to improve his father's opinion of him. But it's not until Robbie's antics put another man's life on the line that he decide it's time to change his ways. But is it too little too late? Award-winning author Katherine Patterson brings her trademark humor and warmth to this dramatic and honest tale of acceptance and redemption.