After attending school for the hearing impaired for most of his life, Will Halpin decides it's time for a change. So he enters into the life of Carbon High School. Reluctantly, he becomes friends with Devon Smiley, who is prone to being bullied and sort of a nerd. On a field trip to a coal mine, a terrible accident occurs that leaves the town and school in shock. Devon and Will decide to investigate the mystery surrounding the accident " Hardy Boys style. Who could the culprit be? Was it out of jealousy or drugs or anger? With any luck, the boys will unearth the truth before it's too late.