A middle aged lexicographer, Helena, travels alone to Durban to assist in the creation of a dictionary of Afrikaans words that have fallen out of use. Shortly after her arrival, her flat is burgled and her precious lifetime's collection of shells is stolen. Meeting with indifference from the local police, she decides to investigate the crime on her own, with the help of her new friend Sof who works at the Museum of Natural History. While investigating the crime, Helena reflects on her life and her ex husband, daughter, childhood and her married boss who she is falling for.