In early-twentieth century Mississippi, the Black family of thirteen-year-old Sis and her great-grandfather Grampa decide to leave their small rural community for Jackson, following the death of Sis’s mother Lady. Sis wants to find the Piney Woods School, so she can receive an education there. As they begin walking, Grampa is already struggling, given his age and poor health. Along the way, they come across the Sheriff and Lady’s old employer, Mr. Jeff, who asks them where they are going. They tell Mr. Jeff they are going to the nearby town of Hattiesburg as a cover, but Mr. Jeff happens to be going there as well, and offers them a ride. After riding into Hattiesburg with Mr. Jeff, they continue walking. Grampa feels unwell and needs to rest. Sis climbs a tree in a nearby vineyard to bring Grampa some grapes, but a dog comes out barking at them. At the same time, they find a water spout on the edge of the property, and Grampa drinks some even as the woman who owns the place comes out and yells at them to go away, much to Sis’s discomfort. The pair continue walking, and eventually come upon a boy who tells them they are not far from Jackson. Grampa wants to go back at this point, but Sis begs him to keep going. A car with a Black family stops, mistaking them for other people, but they still agree to give the two a ride part of the way to Jackson. The family allows them to spend a night at their home. They start walking again, and it is clear that Grampa’s condition is worsening. Still, Sis encourages him to go on, though she is becoming concerned. Eventually Grampa falls on the side of the road, and Sis realizes he is dead.  Unable to get Grampa anywhere for a proper burial, she continues walking. A group of teenage white boys come and offer her a ride, which she accepts. One tries to touch her, and it is clear they plan to harm her. Another of the boys suggests they stop for liquor, and while his friends are distracted, tells her to run. She continues walking, and finally, arrives at the Piney Woods School. She changes into her nice clothes she brought in a bundle, and skips inside.