Christmas 1987 marks the one-year anniversary of Lark Hall's opening for business as an old age home in an English seaside town. But ten-year-old Edward isn't much in the mood to celebrate. He has had to give up his room. And the residents aren't exactly typical companions for a young boy. The passing of one Lark Hall resident raises the possibility that Edward might finally move back into his old room—an option that vanishes with the arrival of Clarence Parkinson. A retired magician and grieving widower, Clarence has been sent to Lark Hall by Social Services. The mere rumor of magic piques Edward’s interest, but Clarence makes it clear that he wants to be left alone. Despite his initial resistance, the old man and the little boy conjure something special of their own: a friendship that transforms both their lives.