Summary

In Chapter 1 the reader is introduced to the main characters, Arthur, Ivan, Eric and Martin. Most of this chapter is told from 14-year old Martin's point of view, but other points of view are offered, too. Martin is the child from Arthur's previous marriage and Martin is waiting for Arthur to come pick him up from his mother's house. Arthur also has two twin boys who are from his new marriage. Martin thinks back to when he first met his father when he was seven, and how he had always thought about his dad as this dark imposing figure, not a middle aged man who looked worn down from the rigors of life.

Once Arthur comes to pick up Martin they head to out to an activity his father has predetermined they'd do that afternoon. The are to attend the hypnotism...