Hard times have hit Gary Indiana as a result of the Great Depression. Father is forced to leave Gary and search for odd jobs, while Mother has taken a job, cleaning house for the rich Mrs. Carsdale to keep a roof over their heads. With older brother Jimmie getting in as much trouble as he does good, Deza is left to ponder their future. She is a 12 years old ball of energy and enthusiasm, smartest in her class and destined to rise above her circumstances if she can stay in school. But Deza realizes that the family is drifting apart and that they wont be able to afford living in Gary much longer Can she keep her family together? With so much going against them can the mighty Malones prevail?