In the time since his parents divorce, Stony hasnt had much to say to his father. Its not just the embarrassing things his father does in public, like picking fights with strangers on the golf course, needling his ex-wife about the car she drives, and asking girls whether theyre attracted to Stony. Its also that his father hasnt talked with him--even once--about his taste in books or girls, or about the painful stuff that has happened, like his grandmother being murdered, inexplicably, as Stonys psychiatrist says. Then its summer, and whatever their relationship issues, Stony is headed for a New Hampshire vacation with his father, his sister, Molly, and his fathers girlfriend, Sally. They plan to hike, watch movies at the condo, and visit the local caves.
