In a small Swedish town during the 1950s, a young boy named Ingemar struggles with a turbulent family life. His mother is gravely ill, and Ingemar is sent to stay with his uncle Gunnar in the countryside to alleviate the stress at home. While away, he befriends several quirky villagers and attempts to make sense of his chaotic emotions. Ingemar often compares his life to that of Laika, the dog sent into space, reflecting on feelings of isolation and hardship.

As Ingemar becomes more integrated into the village life, he experiences moments of joy and sadness, from participating in competitive activities to forming a close bond with a tomboy named Saga. Through these friendships and experiences, Ingemar learns to navigate the complexities of his youthful existence. The compassion and eccentricity of those around him offer solace and understanding, allowing him to cope with the difficult changes in his life.