Bullied and misunderstood, Roland is a 10-year-old boy living on a working-class housing estate in England in 1960. His parents are always fighting, and the crazy neighbours who live next door are constantly at war with one another. Fortunately, Roland has a good friend in Ollie, who is loyal, honest, and always by his side. One day, magic happens, and Roland's life is turned upside down when Francesca, a beautiful young teacher from Italy, comes to his school. Everything changes, and Roland learns to see the world in new and exciting ways and is forced on a journey of discovery with many quirky twists and turns and all sorts of weird and wonderful surprises. Roland's story is about resilience, survival and renewal. It is also about the joy of learning new and exciting things, the irresistible appeal of wonder and beauty, and what happens when we respond with a willing heart and open mind. Ultimately, Roland must conquer his fears, overcome loneliness and despair, and decide whether it is better to light a small candle or curse the dark.