Lawrence, who is about 7 years old, his younger sister, and his hamster are driven to Rome by his mother. She is divorced, but fears that family's safety is being threatened by her ex-husband. Her attempts to re-establish old friendships in Rome, and her paranoia, are brilliantly described in Lawrence's words.

Kneale presents a series of events through the eyes of an innocent, but perceptive child, and in his words, complete with his peculiarities of spelling and naive grammar.

This book is both dark and humorous, and a great short read.