It’s 1967, and Holling Hoodhood has more than a few things on his mind. The Vietnam War, for one, and his teacher, Mrs. Baker, who hates him and makes him read Shakespeare outside of class. Besides that, his sister is running away from home to be a “Flower child” and his father cares about nothing but his business.

But after all, the nearby theatre needs a kid who knows Shakespeare to do a play. So maybe Holling is perfect for the role.