While running along the seawall that borders Nipe Bay in the sugar mill town of Preston, Cuba, three Cuban children, Lina, Emilio, and Angela find a waterlogged suitcase. They soon learn the bag is debris from a tragic plane crash—a failed hijacking. Two months later, thousands of Fidel Castro's supporters are shouting Viva Fidel! as the new leader addresses the nation on TV and radio.

As the revolution engulfs the island, the children's families take sides and take action. Fearing their friendships will be torn apart, the playmates vow to be friends forever. Soon Lina is sent to her grandparents in the United States. With the help of a semi-clandestine operation, Operation Pedro Pan, Emilio goes to a children's home in Miami. Angela stays in Cuba and joins the Army of Education. As the three families struggle with tragedies and betrayal, Lina determines to reunite with her friends.