In the Great Depression-era Midwest, a sharp con man attends a funeral where he meets a tough, clever young girl whose recently deceased mother had ties to him. The girl, precociously mature, insists on accompanying him to the deceased's sister in St. Joseph, Missouri. Reluctantly, he agrees to take her along, and they form an unusual bond as they embark on a road trip. Along the way, they engage in various cons to survive, with the girl proving to be remarkably adept at the art of swindling. Their schemes involve selling overpriced Bibles to widows and engaging in grifts with small businesses, where her unexpected charm quickly becomes an asset.

As they continue their journey, they face several challenges and obstacles. The girl's tenacity and wit endear her to the reluctant con man, forging an unspoken paternal bond while navigating tricky situations involving money and authority figures. Their relationship develops complexity as mutual trust grows amid their shared adventures. Additionally, they encounter characters who either aid or hinder their schemes, adding layers to their dynamic. Despite the rocky roads and moral complexities of their undertakings, the duo's rapport holds throughout their escapades as they move from one town to another, making plans for a future only they could envision together.