I Kill Giants

Barbara Thorson is introduced as a fiercely imaginative teenager living with her supportive older sister, Karen, and brother. Her passion for Dungeons & Dragons shapes her reality as she imagines herself in a world filled with giants threatening her hometown.

Barbara meets Sophia, a newcomer from Leeds, England. Although Sophia attempts to befriend her, Barbara's aloofness prevents any immediate connection, setting the stage for future interactions.

A confrontation between Barbara and a group of bullies led by Taylor interrupts her budding friendship with Sophia. This moment highlights the challenges Barbara faces while protecting herself and her beliefs.

After the bullying incident, Barbara is summoned by the school psychologist, Mrs. Mollé. Annoyed by the distraction, Barbara exits the meeting abruptly, insisting her preparations against the giants are more important.

As Barbara and Sophia's friendship deepens, Barbara begins sharing her intricate mythology about the giants and the various traps she has designed to combat them. This exchange enriches their bond but also reveals Barbara's intense preoccupations.

After being given detention for challenging a teacher, Barbara’s credibility comes into question when she drags Sophia along on a quest to confront a giant. This leads to Sophia doubting Barbara’s outlandish claims about her world.

In an emotional moment triggered by a discussion about baseball, Barbara dashes home. The confusion leads to an accidental strike against Sophia, further complicating their relationship and driving Sophia away in embarrassment.

Sophia faces peer pressure from Taylor, which leads her to explore Barbara’s 'freaky' activities. This decision culminates in a harsh confrontation that leaves Barbara feeling betrayed and her traps dismantled, along with a physical altercation.

While recovering at Sophia's home, Barbara becomes distressed by her surroundings and warns Sophia to retreat from an unseen threat. This disturbing revelation drives a wedge between the two girls, exacerbated by a recording from Barbara's past.

Barbara embarks on a mission to confront a giant in an abandoned train yard. Using her ingenuity, she electrifies the giant but finds herself overwhelmed, revealing her emotional turmoil and readiness to confront her fears.

In an emotional outburst following her giant confrontation, Barbara plays a prank that humiliates Taylor. This act prompts concern and a search for her from her sister and Mrs. Mollé, indicating the impact of Barbara's struggles.

As a storm brews, Mrs. Mollé encourages Barbara to reconnect with her estranged mother. Unaware of the impending tragedy, Barbara continues to focus on her battles with the giants, ignoring the signs surrounding her.

The arrival of the giant forces Barbara into a climactic battle. Armed with her transformed war hammer Coveleski, she channels her emotions into the fight, uncovering profound truths about life and loss in the process.

In the aftermath of her battle, Barbara returns to the shore, reflecting on the titan's haunting words. This moment signifies a full circle in her journey and leads to a reunion with Sophia.

The next day, Barbara finds the courage to say a heartfelt goodbye to her dying mother. This moment of vulnerability allows Barbara to begin rebuilding her relationships, especially with Mrs. Mollé and Sophia, amidst her personal grief.