Set in Harlem in 1987, it is the story of Claireece "Precious" Jones (Gabourey Sidibe), a sixteen year old African American girl born into a life that no one would want. She's pregnant for the second time by her absent father; at home she must wait hand and foot on her mother (Mo'Nique) who abuses her emotionally and physically. Threatened with expulsion, Precious is offered the chance to transfer to an alternative school. In the literacy workshop, Precious begins a journey that will lead her from darkness, pain and powerlessness to light, love and self-determination.