In 1967 Rob Hanks, a recent college grad, accepts a counselor position in an isolated work camp for serious delinquent offenders. Within a few days he is personally challenged like he had never been before, as there was little in college that had prepared him for direct, in-your-face, confrontation. Rob learns that he is replacing another guy who had been broken down both physically and mentally by thugs who truly enjoyed watching the man cry. Luckily he is partnered with Jack, a cross eyed, ex-paratrooper, who knows the ropes. Together they wade into the circus, dealing with suicide, pheasants, sex, trout, violence and bears. As Rob struggles to find his footing, he takes a few missteps along the way which threaten his marriage and his traditional values.