A young boy lives a quaint life in suburban San Diego. His first friend is a boy from his neighborhood named Roland. Kids go and stare at Roland’s house, because there are dark rumors about his house, his family, and his father. The boy has a great time playing video games and shoplifting with Roland and Roland’s brother. Sex comes up constantly, and the boy is simultaneously intrigued and repelled by the concept, wanting somewhat to hold onto his innocence.

Eventually, the boy’s mother does not let him go over to Roland’s house anymore, because she says Roland’s father is a bad person. The boy retreats into himself, watching the other kids play while he is stuck at home. A new neighbor from Illinois named Homer starts hanging out with Roland.

One day the boy’s mother finds Roland’s sister sitting in their front lawn with a red stain on the front of her dress. The police come and take her away. 

Homer starts spending time with the boy instead of Roland, since he is not allowed to spend time with Roland now, either. The boy thoroughly enjoys the wholesomeness of Homer’s household.

Roland’s father is sent away, and his household is now strangely quiet. Roland flunks eighth grade, and a great rift comes between Roland and the boy. 

Eventually, they become friends again. The boy is even Roland’s best man in his wedding. However, resentment always lingers, because the boy has been lucky and Roland has not.