Rather than be placed in a special school for psychologically-challenged students, Dylan, six months from turning eighteen, sets out on the Appalachian Trail, where he makes surprising connections with other hikers.
"Allie is devastated when her sister Leah commits suicide--and not just because she misses her. The two teens made a suicide pact so that they'd always be together, and Allie can't understand why she was left behind"--
Feeling angry, guilty, and depressed over his girlfriend's suicide, his brother's tragic accident, and his parents' marital discord, John struggles to stay sober as teachers, counselors, and a sweet girl next door try to help.