Nine-year old Ying-Ying (Jasmine) and her mother move to Los Angeles, while her father's shadow follows. Jasmine discovers unexpected consequences as she gets to know her older brother Art, makes new friends, joins the L.A. Junior Fire Department, breaks one of her mother's rules, competes in sports and in Chinese school, deals with a hostile teacher, wonders about her mother's suitor, and finds out about superstitions and faith.