Theres only one thing in the world that Mickey Vernon really wants, and it's hanging in his family's pool hall. Its the awesome shirt that the winner of the ten- to thirteen year olds' nine-ball championship will be wearing. But to win, Mickey has to beat Buck Pender, who is three years older and probably part gorilla. NOt even Arlen Pepper, loyal best friend andmath whiz, can help him. But when Joseph Alvarez, an old friend of Mickey's father and an absolute pool ace, offers to coach him. Mickey figures he has a chance. If only he can convince his mother to overcome her mistruct of joseph.