Winter 1977

Sterling North lives a simple and peaceful life in Brailsford Junction, Wisconsin, spending much of his time tending to animals. With his mother hospitalized and his brother fighting in the Western Front, Sterling lives with just his father and his beloved dog, Hauser.
One weekend brings a change of pace as Sterling, accompanied by his friend Oscar and Hauser, embarks on a fishing trip. Along the way, Hauser’s keen sense of smell leads them to a raccoon’s nest, where they discover an orphaned kit. The kit’s mother had been killed by a hunter who sought to fashion a fur hat from her pelt. Without hesitation, Sterling takes the kit under his wing and dedicates himself to caring for the young raccoon, whom he calls Rascal.
Amidst the turmoil of his family’s separation, with his brother fighting overseas and his mother’s illness, Sterling finds solace and joy in the company of his new companion. Rascal, the “ring-tailed wonder” and mischievous scoundrel, becomes a source of strength and connection for Sterling, binding him to the world around him.