Mateo Xavier Manuel Rodriguez Aguerra-Veracruz, known to everyone as Penco (slang for "orphan") is an artist from northern New Mexico. Twelve years ago, Penco hitchhiked to Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, to start a new life. Single-minded about his painting and haunted by memories of the lost world of his childhood, he has become a recluse. When Penco starts to work as a bus driver, the chaotic streets and characters of Juarez begin to reconnect him with the world. He spends time with friends from El Cafe Mision, a local bar frequented by the elusive Gabriella, a fellow artist; Penco's best friend...