The three long-needled pine trees grew up together on a Christmas tree farm in North Carolina, nestled between the Elbow and Shoehorn mountains. All three dream of becoming beautiful Christmas trees.

Marshall is a perfect tree: tall, well-shaped, and with beautiful branches. Barney and Butch aren't quite so lucky. Barney has a large bald spot in his branches. Butch is short and stocky. When Christmas comes, Butch and Barney are sure their friend will be sold first-and so is Marshall.

When an accident leaves Marshall as imperfect and different as Butch and Barney, the three...