In 1924 thirteen-year-old Kai is packed off to an approved school. In common with the rest of the boys, he is subjected to the harshest treatment and forced to remain silent about the horrifying abuses to which he is witness. Finally, however, the boys revolt. A parallel narrative tells the story of a young teacher who uncovers the worst misdeed of all. With a pronounced sense of commitment, Merethe Lindstrøm has produced an incredibly diversified and enthralling novel.