Pepper's beloved hamster, Mookie, dies, leaving her feeling confused, sad, and worried she may have done something wrong. Her family reassures her that Mookie was loved and that his death is not her fault.
As Pepper grieves, she experiences many emotions-crying, anger, confusion, and even moments of happiness that make her question if it's okay to feel that way. Through small acts like drawing Mookie, talking to him, and visiting where he is buried, she begins to cope with his loss.
In time, Pepper learns that grief is a reflection of love. She comes to understand that it's okay to feel both sad and happy, and that even though Mookie is gone, her love for him remains and becomes part of her forever.