It's Brian's eighth birthday and his family bought him a parakeet. He's named it Scratchy, because that's what it feels like when the bird sits on his finger. Brian has been blind since he was four. Even though he can't see Scratchy, he can play with him and teach him to talk.

With his Grandma's help, Brian learns to take the bird out of his cage and let him sit on his finger. When Scratchy decides to fly around the room, Brian needs his grandma's help to find him. Over time, Scratchy learns to say "Hello, Brian" and "Come on, Scratchy". One day, Brian's absent-minded brother leaves the front door open, and Scratchy flies outside. Will Brian be able to get him back?