Synopsis: Milk and Cookies with Mrs. Masters

Three children in a small town in Indiana face problems as the troubles in their parents' lives spill over onto them. Siri is from a privileged family who puts too much pressure on her to perform and excel so they will look good. Allison lives with her divorced mom, who is overworked and underpaid. Allison distrusts the mom's boyfriend. Robert's father is an abusive alcoholic, and his mother is a battered wife, too afraid to run. He is quickly becoming like his dad.
The three fifth-graders are linked by their teacher, Mrs. Masters, whose home is a port of safety in the storms of their own lives. As they begin to trust her and each other, they each find ways to overcome their circumstances.