In the 1970s, on a backpacking adventure to Europe, Alma discovers her cousins in her grandfather’s hometown in northern Italy near Lake Garda. As Alma bonds with Gianna, Catrina, Novella, Veronica and Kara, the girls become lasting friends, sharing their joys and sorrows with each other on their journey through life.

Over 45 years, passing into adulthood and through middle age, their friendship sustains them. While sharing their culture and testing the limits of their endurance, they experience life’s lessons along the way. As Alma travels on her journey of discovery, she learns the meaning of family, friendship, love, courage and survival. In the process, she not only finds her heritage, but ultimately finds herself.