At the end of 1903, in working-class town in the West of Scotland, Tam Docherty's youngest son, Conn is born. Tam is determined that life and the pits won't swallow up his boy the way it has him. Courageous and questioning, Docherty emerges as a leader of almost indomitable strength, but in a close-knit community tradition is a powerful opponent.

At the end of 1903, in working-class town in the West of Scotland, Tam Docherty's youngest son, Conn is born. Tam is determined that life and the pits won't swallow up his boy the way it has him. Courageous and questioning, Docherty emerges as a leader of almost indomitable strength, but in a close-knit community tradition is a powerful opponent.