Alexander, 11, lives in a sequestered commune with other children, their moms, and the charismatic leader, Gregori, on the outskirts of a dying metropolis. Gregori teaches the children how to keep livestock, grow vegetables, and work cooperatively-and also how to kill. Alexander begins to doubt Gregori's overwhelming control over the children and their training to be assassins as the birth of a new baby sibling weighs on his thoughts. Gregori's behavior becomes erratic and antagonistic toward the youngster he previously considered a son as a result of his increasing refusal to conform. With the two at odds and the commune's way of life collapsing, the people fear a violent resolution is imminent.