The book is a poignant memoir that delves into the complex and troubled history of the author's family, particularly focusing on his brother, Gary Gilmore, who gained notoriety for demanding his own execution after being convicted of murder. Through a deeply personal narrative, the author explores themes of familial dysfunction, violence, and redemption, offering a raw and introspective look at how the past shaped their lives. The story is both a reflection on the broader implications of crime and punishment in America and a heartfelt examination of the bonds and fractures within a family marked by tragedy.