The moment the truck driven by Ort Flack's father ploughs into a roadside tree, the family's world is shattered. His father is withering away, his sister is consumed by hatred and frustration, his grandma turns inward, and his mother Alice, is brave, but helpless. Twelve-year-old Ort always believes the sky can see them. Outside at night, he looks at the stars, comforted by their protective canopy. A strange light appears over the house; only Ort can see it. When a mysterious stranger appears at their door, Ort senses something is going to happen that will change all of their lives.