Mo Folchart is a "Silvertongue," possessing the unique ability to bring characters from books into the real world by reading aloud. While this power is fascinating, it also comes with dire consequences, as he discovers when he reads from a book called "Inkheart." His attempt to read from this particular book results in the appearance of several characters from its pages, including a villainous figure named Capricorn, but tragically, his wife, Teresa, disappears into the book's world. Saddled with guilt and the responsibility of the unintended havoc he has caused, Mo, alongside his 12-year-old daughter Meggie, embarks on a quest to fix the wrongs and find a way to bring Teresa back to their world. Their journey is fraught with challenges as they navigate the dangers posed by the characters they've unintentionally brought to life.

As they search for a copy of "Inkheart" in hopes of reversing the effects, Mo and Meggie must contend not only with Capricorn's malevolent plans but also with allies they find in other characters brought to life, including Dustfinger, a fire-eating performer who longs to return to his own story. The stakes rise when Mo’s ability draws the attention of both friends and foes, leading to a showdown that tests the bonds between father and daughter. Their adventures take them across stunning landscapes and into confrontations with fantastical beings, all while exploring the themes of sacrifice, the power of storytelling, and the deep ties of family.