In 1960, Eddie, a paperboy from Queens, NY, stumbles upon a ritualistic setup in the garage of one of his customers while making collections. He finds a cage designed to carry animals and is determined to find out if the garage and cage have anything to do with the disappearance of his friend, a street dog named Sampson.
Eddie, a thirteen-year-old boy from a fractured family, finds freedom and purpose as a paperboy. Though hard-working and cocky, he masks his insecurities and yearning for belonging as he navigates the challenges and complexities of friendship and teenage crushes.
With his friends, he unravels the mystery of the suspicious garage, ultimately confronting grief and becoming more thoughtful and compassionate.