It's 1970s Canada. The small island community of Bear Lake is awash with rumours of lay-offs and wildcat strikes at the mill. But for young Tom, nothing is more important than hanging out with his best friend, Cormic, except perhaps catching a glimpse of Sasha Dovonovitch, the foreman's daughter.

When a tragic accident occurs at the mill, the whole community unites – but in a small town, pointed fingers and hushed gossip can can only stir further trouble...