The film is based on the autobiographical novel from Loung Ung.
Loung Ung lives with his family in the capital Phnom Penh. Her father holds a high office in the army of President Lon Nol. After the victory of the Khmer Rouge over the Republic of Khmer, the cities are evacuated. Thus begins a death march for many Cambodians. The Khmer Rouge is trying to establish its reign of terror. The Maoist regime plans to turn the country into a peasantry. In this political context, Loung's parents try to survive and protect the children. When his former job in the army of the president comes to light, Loune's father is executed. While lounging in an orphanage, her siblings try to survive in the labor camps.