Young Martin eagerly awaits his invitation to Olivia's birthday party. When the invitation never comes, Martin faces disappointment and sadness as he comes face to face with prejudice due to the color of his skin. He is inspired by a guest reader who visits his classroom to follow in Martin Luther King, Jr.'s footsteps and bring light to the darkness of racism.

Although excluded from the party, Martin drops off Olivia's present and encounters a situation in which he must decide whether to turn and run or stand still and be strong. His choice changes the course of one person's life forever.