Igby Slocumb, a 17-year-old from an affluent family, is sent to live with his older brother Ollie in New York for the summer. Igby has been kicked out of several prep schools due to his rebellious nature and is forced to work for their godfather, D.H. Banes, renovating his properties. Igby finds solace with Rachel, D.H.'s mistress, and Sookie, a waitress he falls in love with. However, a joint mission with Ollie leads to Igby gaining a clearer understanding of his future.

Igby Goes Down
The tumultuous childhood of a young adult hinders his ability to navigate the challenges and responsibilities of adulthood.