The novel explores the emotional journey of a young boy who, after the death of his grandmother, moves to New York City to live with his estranged mother. Struggling with the complexities of adolescence, the boy forms a deep bond with his pet dachshund and grapples with his emerging sexuality. His friendship with a classmate becomes a source of comfort and confusion, leading to a tragic event that ultimately forces him to confront his identity and the nature of his relationships. The story is a poignant coming-of-age tale that addresses themes of family, friendship, loss, and self-discovery.

The 3783rd greatest book of all time