In the lush Cherokee Ozarks of Oklahoma, young Jay Berry Lee discovers a chaotic surprise: a tree brimming with escaped circus monkeys. His grandfather tells tales of a handsome reward for their capture, sparking Jay's ambition to win the money that his family so desperately needs. Armed with youthful optimism and his trusty dog Rowdy, Jay embarks on an adventurous summer quest. Yet, as he ventures deeper into the wild and his own heart, Jay uncovers life lessons about hope, desires, and the bittersweet nuances of growing up.