In a world where everyone has something to say, Malchus Hemmings has nothing to contribute but silence. His alcoholic father has little patience for his mute five-year-old son and cast him out of the house onto the streets.
The wily lad adapts to life on the streets—and survives by scrounging and begging. He neither seeks nor welcomes companionship. But then he stumbles into the crude shelter of two orphan boys during a storm. The charismatic "Darby", captivates Malchus and takes his inability to speak in stride. while Jim, a sullen youth, accepts the newcomer into their partnership.
Life becomes a series of ups and downs as Hemmings learns the art of thievery from his companions. Street children, murderous gang leaders, and his own father continue to heap abuse upon him. When the chilling hand of death strikes a severe blow to a beloved companion, his fragile faith falters. With his soul and life on the line, Malchus realizes his desperate need for a savior. But how will he overcome the obstacles of his fractured past?
