THEO and MARY are good-hearted, but have disfigured faces and deformities that make them the subject of ridicule in their small town. One night, the townspeople drive them away. Mary and Theo take all their belongings and deep in the woods find an enchanting and magical world, where they set up their home. Soon thereafter, a son, RAY, is born. Even as a small child, Ray is kind and considerate. He possesses special gifts, including the ability to speak with the elements and animals. Recognizing his brilliance, Mary and Theo overcome their own fear of humiliation and send him to school when he is five. At school, Ray wins over a group of bullies led by MATT through a combination of his special powers in healing a bird and his friendly nature. His gifts also result in the rescue of a toddler from a burning house. Later, Ray, Matt, and two other boys risk danger in the forest to find another boy who has run away from home because of problems with his parents. Ray is able to locate the boy, and then Theo finds the group and assists in their return to town. The townspeople are so grateful to Theo that they plan a big party in the familys honor. When told of Theos concerns about rejection, the town instead throws open its heart and mind to welcome the family into their community. Theo gives a speech that brings home to the town the meaning of unconditional love and the knowledge that true beauty comes from within.