The open sea. It is no place for children. Unpredictable winds. Threatening waves. Currents, sometimes kind, but often treacherous. Predators lurking below. Danger, real and imagined. The ocean is meant for knowledgeable sailors. Seasoned. Capable. Strong men. Strong women. It is no place for children. But Marvis H Neptune, through no fault of his own, is alone at sea. A small boy, on a medium sized boat, on a vast ocean. Pirate hat on his head, compass in his pocket, and wind in his face, the twelve-year-old must weather the storms, ignore the shadows, master the waves, face his fears, and find his way home--whatever that might mean.