Jon Rickland, a thirteen-year-old Norwegian farm boy, suspects that a family of little people may be living in the Ricklands’ hay mow.

Bjorn, a twelve-year-old Tomta, a class of Norwegian little people, is very unusual for his race.  He can hear and understand what the humans are saying and has a wander lust and curiosity very uncommon for a Tomta. He and his family, who live in the Ricklands’ hay mow, are invisible to humans unless they deliberately choose to reveal themselves, something that is strictly forbidden by Tomta law.

As Bjorn becomes entwined in the busy farm life of the Rickland family, a rich tapestry of Norwegian traditions is revealed. Bjorn must decide to what extent he will allow his relationship with Jon to grow, and will Jon ever know for sure what he expects is real?