The moving story of the torments of sexuality and the redemptive power of family and friendship, The Short History of a Prince is the story of Walter McCloud, a boy with dreams unlike most. Introduced as a child to the genius of Balanchine and the lyricism of Tchaikovsky, Walter has always aspired to be a dancer. As he grows older, it becomes clear that despite his desire, he lacks the talent, and he faces the painful knowledge that his more gifted friends have already surpassed him. Soon, however, that pain is overshadowed when his older brother, Daniel, finds a strange lump on his neck and Walter realizes that a family's happiness can change overnight. The year that follows transforms the McClouds, as they try to hold together in the face of the fearful consequences of Daniel's illness, and Walter makes discoveries about himself and his friendships that will change him forever. Decades later, Walter returns home and must come to terms with the memories of that year, grappling once and for all with the challenge of carving out a place for himself in an all-too-familiar world.