Tomas, a frail, shy eight-year-old boy, has been living a solitary life in a drab orphanage sad, friendless and alone. Then a joyous burst of colour comes into his world: Maire O'Donnell, whose smile and spirit light up the darkest room and Tomas's heart. Before he knows it, Tomas is on a boat, sailing to wind-swept Corrie Island off the coast of Ireland, where he meets Alec, her reticent husband who cannot hide his disappointment with the boy. Undiscouraged, Maire introduces Tomas to the wonders of his new world. She shares with him the secret of the seals, the mystery of the stone giant and shows him that you can find magic anywhere- if you really look. In this rugged and enchanting world, Tomas thrives.