This is the first chapter of a novel in progress. Maurice and the Magnificents takes place in and around fictional Atlantic High School in 1969. The protagonist is a 16-year-old boy named Udell Diego Morris. One summer night his father fails to come home, leaving Udell, his Puerto Rican mother, and his comatose twin sister to survive on their own. Desperate for cash and "inspired" by his sister, Udell attempts to find his father while putting together a musical group to compete on a television talent program with a $5000 cash prize. The other members of the band, including a lead singer who stutters, a very "uncool" female violinist, and an African American bully, have to battle obstacles including internal bickering, parental disapproval, and a general lack of talent.