Adapted from a Swedish novel that employs poetic drama to illuminate and humanize difficult social issues, this film is a touching account of the hardships faced by a young boy, Nélio, during Mozambique’s civil war. After losing his family during a raid on his village, Nélio manages to escape from a training camp for young soldiers. Upon reaching the capital, he becomes the leader of a group of street children who believe he has the power to cure diseases. His burgeoning reputation as a healer, however, cannot shield him from the brutality of war.