In 1940, fifteen-year-old Lillia and her family escape Warsaw after the disappearance of her mother. They head to Shanghai, which was under Japanese control, yet still relatively safe for Jewish refugees. But once in China Lillia and her family struggle to live in country they don't understand. Coming from a family of circus performers, Lillia finds solace in making puppets, but soon realizes she will need to do whatever it takes to help feed her family.