Hearts in Atlantis

Middle-aged Bobby Garfield returns to his childhood hometown after the tragic news of his best friend's death. John 'Sully' Sullivan, a decorated soldier, has lost his life in a car accident, prompting Bobby to confront his past.

As Bobby revisits an abandoned house he once called home, memories begin to flood back, including the heartbreak surrounding the loss of his childhood friend, Carol. This journey into the past becomes a reflective moment for Bobby as he navigates his emotions.

Transported to the summer of the 1960s, young Bobby lives with his self-absorbed mother, Liz Garfield. Their relationship is strained as Liz grapples with her vanity and personal issues while Bobby navigates the joys and challenges of childhood.

During this pivotal summer, Liz reluctantly takes in an enigmatic older man, Ted Brautigan, as a boarder due to financial necessity. Despite her distrust, Bobby grows close to Ted, forming a bond that would become crucial in his life.

As Bobby, Carol, and Sully share various adventures, Bobby and Carol develop a deeper connection, marked by a significant kiss that would influence their future romantic endeavors. This moment becomes a fond memory for both of them.

Ted, aware of Bobby's loneliness due to Liz's preoccupations, takes him under his wing. As they spend time together, Bobby discovers Ted's extraordinary psychic and telekinetic abilities, hinting at a shared connection that transcends the ordinary.

In an effort to help Bobby acquire a bicycle, Ted offers him a dollar a week to read the newspaper aloud. This arrangement not only builds their bond but also paves the way for deeper revelations that Ted shares regarding his past and the threats he faces.

Ted reveals to Bobby that he's on the run from mysterious entities known as the 'Low Men.' As he shares stories that link to Bobby’s father, Ted emphasizes the importance of being vigilant for signs of danger while nurturing Bobby's latent abilities.

At a local carnival, Bobby impresses himself by winning card games, showcasing newfound abilities that hint at his connection with Ted. Despite sensing the 'Low Men' nearby, he chooses to keep quiet, wary of losing Ted's support.

Amidst their adventures, Bobby and his friends face off against local bully Harry Doolin. Ted intervenes, using his empathic abilities to uncover Harry's vulnerabilities, leading to a moment of revelation for the bully and reaffirming Bobby's courage.

During a weekend alone with Ted, a close encounter with the 'Low Men' occurs, unsettling Bobby. Ted advises him to rely on happy memories to disorient their pursuers, showing their growing bond is one of trust and protection.

After Liz's traumatic experiences, she misjudges Ted as a threat, leading to a dramatic confrontation. Ted reveals truths about Liz’s own struggles, deepening Bobby's understanding of their complicated family dynamics.

The situation escalates when Ted is ultimately captured by the 'Low Men,' due in part to Liz's inadvertent actions. In a heartfelt moment, Ted reassures Bobby that their time together has been invaluable, creating a lasting impact on the young boy's heart.

In the aftermath of the tumultuous events, Liz decides to start anew in Boston, leaving Bobby's childhood behind. This pivotal choice signals a significant transition in their lives as they forge ahead separately.

Years later, Bobby returns to his childhood home, where he meets Molly, Carol's daughter. This encounter becomes a poignant moment of connection, symbolizing the enduring legacy of friendship and loss across generations.