In this enchanting tale, we are invited to journey alongside Cindy (Jennifer Garner) and Jim Green (Joel Edgerton), a devoted couple on a heartfelt mission to adopt a child. Their story unfolds as they share their remarkable encounter with Timothy (Cameron 'C.J.' Adams), a boy whose entrance into their lives feels nothing short of a miracle.
Set in the quaint town of Stanleyville, famously known as the "pencil capital of the world," the Greens find themselves grappling with the devastating news that they cannot conceive. In a bid to cope, Jim encourages Cindy to dream about their ideal child, suggesting she write down his attributes and life moments on slips of paper. These thoughts are then lovingly placed in a wooden box and buried in their backyard—a symbol of their aspirations for parenthood.
As fate would have it, a sudden and fierce thunderstorm hits their property, leaving behind a deep hole exactly where they had buried their box. Upon returning to the site, the Greens discover the box shattered and Timothy, muddy and beaming, sitting within it. It soon becomes clear that this extraordinary boy embodies all the traits they had wished for in a child.
However, Timothy is no ordinary boy; he has leaves sprouting from his legs, which he cleverly hides beneath long green tube socks. As Cindy and Jim navigate this peculiar situation, they introduce Timothy to their quirky family members: Brenda Best (Rosemarie DeWitt), Cindy's sister; James Green Sr. (David Morse), Jim’s estranged father; and the charming duo Mel (Lois Smith) and Bub (M. Emmet Walsh), Cindy’s aunt and uncle.
The trio's adventure continues when they meet Reggie (Lin-Manuel Miranda), the local botanist, who reveals that Timothy’s leaves are a fundamental aspect of who he is and cannot be removed. As Timothy adapts to his new life, he forges a friendship with Joni Jerome (Odeya Rush) during a school incident involving bullying. Invited to her birthday pool party, their bond deepens, although a misunderstanding occurs when Joni attempts to remove his socks, leading Timothy to react defensively. This moment, however, ultimately fosters their friendship.
Yet, not all is well in Stanleyville. The town's pencil factory, the linchpin of its economy, initiates layoffs, prompting Timothy to inspire Cindy and Jim to innovate a new pencil design to save the business. As the Greens remain unaware, the enchanting presence of Timothy has profound effects on those around him. With every quality listed on their original slips of paper, one of Timothy's leaves gradually falls— a poignant reminder of life's impermanence. It isn't until Timothy reveals to Cindy and Jim that his time on earth is limited, that they begin to understand the gravity of his condition. He sorrowfully confesses he will eventually vanish, leaving the couple grappling with the bittersweet reality of his existence.
Amidst another raging thunderstorm, Timothy bids farewell to the Greens during his departure. In the wake of his exit, all that remains are the slips of paper that once held his dreams and hopes. As the Greens contemplate the significance of his words and the enigma of his disappearance, Cindy later discovers a letter written by Timothy before his departure. This heartfelt message captures his remarkable ability to connect and spread love, further enriching their understanding of his brief yet impactful life.
As time passes, the arrival of an adoption counselor brings new possibilities for the Greens. This time, the counselor is accompanied by a young girl named Lily, who stands poised to embrace a cherished place in their family. This moment serves as a beautiful reminder that even amid loss and uncertainty, new beginnings are always within reach, offering hope and love anew.
