White Oleander

Fifteen-year-old Astrid Magnussen navigates life in vibrant Los Angeles alongside her artist mother, Ingrid. She struggles with the weight of not knowing her father and relies heavily on her self-absorbed mother for emotional support.

Ingrid's relationship with writer Barry falls apart due to infidelity, leading to a tragic climax. In a fit of rage and despair, Ingrid murders Barry using deadly white oleander poison and is subsequently arrested for the crime.

Following her mother's imprisonment, Astrid is placed under the guardianship of social services. This transition into foster care marks the beginning of a challenging journey for Astrid to find stability and belonging.

Astrid's first foster mother, Starr Thomas, is a recovering alcoholic and former stripper who introduces Astrid to her faith. They bond initially, even culminating in Astrid's baptism, which symbolizes a new chapter in her life.

Tensions arise when Ingrid learns about Astrid's newfound connection with Starr, influencing Astrid's choices. Jealousy and alcoholism lead Starr back into darkness, resulting in a violent incident where she shoots Astrid in a drunken rage.

After recovering from her injuries in the hospital, Astrid is transferred to McKinney Children's Center, known as 'Mac.' Here she encounters conflicts with other girls but eventually forms a meaningful friendship with artist Paul Trout.

Astrid is placed with Claire Richards, a former actress, and her producer husband, Mark. The bond between Astrid and Claire blossoms, providing Astrid with care and support she desperately needs after her turbulent experiences.

Upon discovering that Ingrid is writing to Claire, Astrid insists on visiting her mother in prison. This visit stirs old emotions and insecurities, and Ingrid's manipulative behavior significantly affects Claire, ultimately leading to Claire's tragic suicide.

Overwhelmed by grief after Claire's suicide, Astrid communicates her sorrow to Ingrid and decides to cease further visits. Choosing to return to Mac, Astrid reflects on the impact of Ingrid's actions on her life and the lives around her.

In her next foster placement with Rena, a Russian immigrant, Astrid faces exploitation. Rena encourages Astrid to betray her integrity by testifying against her mother in court, but Astrid resolutely refuses to compromise her values.

Astrid visits Ingrid in prison again and confronts her about her family's history. This powerful encounter reveals deep emotional scars and forces Astrid to grapple with complicated feelings regarding her mother and her past.

As time passes, Astrid and Paul rekindle their bond, navigating their complicated feelings together. Paul supports Astrid during her mother's trial, signifying a growing connection amid the turmoil surrounding them.

During a pivotal moment at Ingrid's trial, Astrid realizes that her mother disregards her statements. This betrayal culminates in a painful goodbye as Astrid watches Ingrid being taken away, highlighting the unresolved issues between them.

Two years later, Astrid and Paul begin anew in New York City, where Astrid immerses herself in her art. She creatively expresses her tumultuous journey through captivating dioramas that reflect the significant experiences of her life.

As Astrid closes the last suitcase that symbolizes her relationship with Ingrid, she reflects on the complexities of love and pain. Despite Ingrid's imperfections, Astrid acknowledges her mother's love for her, showcasing her emotional growth.