An elderly Asháninka shaman recounts part of his people's history and customs, which are not included in the official education the state provides to the Asháninka. A mestizo girl studying at the state school in Poyeni receives an education that makes this divide obvious. Sent to her godmother's house in the city of Satipo to learn Spanish and receive "a better education," she experiences nothing but mistreatment and runs away, seeking to return home. Along the way, she discovers the richness of her maternal culture, highlighting the need for an education that values her and helps her survive.