Widge's mission to pilfer Hamlet is far from straightforward. The indentured orphan, who can transcribe a secret code as quickly as someone speaks, must attend a performance and document the entire play so his master's acting troupe can stage it. Success promises a handsome reward, but failure carries the threat of death. Falconer, his master's servant who accompanies Widge to London, has already killed a man for a mere insult; he would undoubtedly kill a lowly apprentice without hesitation.

While watching the play, Widge writes the dialogue in code. However, when a pickpocket steals his secret notes, Widge decides that he must steal the playbook from the Globe Theatre. Caught inside, he pretends to aspire to be an actor and is accepted by the troupe. For the first time, Widge experiences belonging. His opinions, previously disregarded, are now valued. He is treated as a real person rather than an indentured servant, and he finds that he enjoys this new role.

Widge faces a dilemma: should he betray his newfound friends and his new life as one of Shakespeare's actors, let fear control him, and steal a copy of Hamlet? Or can he defy his master's influence and carve out his own identity? Unaccustomed to making such decisions, Widge wavers but eventually makes a choice that transforms his life.