Charlotte Castang is a working-class 13-year-old girl, who lives in a drab, run-down neighbourhood, and is ready to become an adult. Her mother died giving birth to her, and she lives with her crass brother and a father whose attention is elsewhere. Her only friend is Lulu, a sick 10-year-old she regards as a pest. Charlotte is antisocial, bored and dreams of a better life. Her life improves when she meets Clara Bauman, a pianist prodigy.

Charlotte Castang

Léone

Sam

Lulu

Jean

Antoine Castang

Jacky Castang

Serveuse perroquet

Gymnastics teacher
December 11, 1985

Charlotte Castang

Léone

Sam

Lulu

Jean

Antoine Castang

Jacky Castang

Serveuse perroquet

Gymnastics teacher

