Given her disreputable past, retired teacher Maggie Brodie knows she was a last minute choice for supply cover. Being patronised by the idiotic young headmaster is an indignity she can just about endure. But her frustrations increase when a silent Somalian child in her class, whom Maggie is inexplicably drawn to, is believed by her family and community to be possessed. Maggie seems to be the only one who is outraged and protective of the girl. And if they don't listen to her, she will be forced to take action. Drastic action.