Grace's true home is her grandparents' farm where she revels in the outdoors and its reptilian wildlife, so when she and her mother move to New York City, the eighth grader refuses to accept her new surroundings. Her one solace is assisting in the reptile shop Fang & Claw with kindred spirit Walter, the owner's son, who gives Grace a prized iguana. Her friend Cathy introduces Nick, another reptile fan, but Grace often brusquely resists their company, preferring her reptiles. Her feelings of disconnectedness multiply when she visit her grandparents and discovers them enjoying an indoor lifestyle after selling much of their land to developers. Grace begins to mature but detests her changing body, causing her to withdraw further and hurt others, especially Walter. Grace ponders her actions and considers who she wishes to become, and begins taking baby steps toward a more fulfilling future.