The sound woke Bear. Immediately, he recognizes the raspy sound and is filled Bear with fear. Bear runs through the dark house, desperately looking for his best friend, now missing at midnight. Bear finally finds Jim who is backed hard against a door and is petrified by the “big, so very big” thing lurking in the shadows--watching him. Jim, Bear, and Peanut must confront the huge, repulsive thing that has invaded their home and endangered the family’s safety. Jim must face his own fears and revulsion to focus his mind on resolving their conflicts. He must also convince his friends to put aside their prejudices and petty differences, to stop fighting, and to work together to save a life.