Meet Carl Andrew Simmons - a highly imaginative ten year old with the dream of flying. Knowing little else other than the sheltered existence he has had at the Brighton County Orphanage, Carl's life changes dramatically when he is introduced to Robert and Mary Ever-Young. The Ever-Youngs are a well established couple from the quaint New England town of Brisbee who choose to adopt Carl in order to give him a better life. What the Ever-Youngs don't yet realize is the profound impact that Carl will have on their lives as well as the lives of others he meets along the wayin his quest to fly.