Stanley was a skinny, timid child who dreaded school. Each Friday, his mum, Irene, would bribe him with a toy car, compelling him to attend the following week. She and his father, Pete, provided love and support, but their eldest son always remained anxious, with little self-esteem. Then, at the age of 10, a greater embarrassment caused him even more anxiety: his mother had bought him the wrong shirt for the football team he had joined with his friends.

Previously, the child had been happy to be invisible, allowing disappointment and others to take control of his life. This single incident made him determined to take charge. He had lots of friends, including Glyn and Roy, who would help him; perhaps they might even have some fun. His first test would be to stand in front of hundreds of boys when he took the school assembly.

Stan knew his struggles to change his life would be a long journey, but he was certain he could develop an inner strength and become more confident. He would no longer be 'short straw Stan' – he was ready to take control of his life.

Portrayed through separate, linked novellas, these tales of Stan's life from infancy through his teenage years may be read as one continuous novel. Alternatively, any chapter may be chosen from any novella and read as a short story.