The Power of One is the story of Peekay, a South African boy whose life is in turmoil during and after the Second World War. Beset by racism and family difficulties, Peekay makes a diverse series of friends all around South Africa as he pursues his twin goals of becoming a welterweight boxing champion and gaining a top-tier education. Eventually, through perseverance and intense willpower, Peekay takes steps toward achieving his goals.