Jimmy Kirkland of the Cascade College Team

A young college athlete returns home discouraged after a year of social setbacks and misunderstandings at his Western school, where rivalries, prejudice against a loyal Asian friend, and clashes with influential classmates leave him isolated. Summer on the family ranch brings reunion with an old baseball star who becomes a steady mentor and with companions who restore his confidence. The narrative follows his attempts to clear a campus mystery about a missing pig, resist the lure of professional sport, mend strained relationships, and prepare for a decisive final game, while exploring themes of loyalty, honor, and personal growth.