The novel is a humorous and satirical detective story set in Barcelona, where an unnamed, eccentric protagonist is released from a mental institution to solve the mystery of a missing schoolgirl from a convent. As he navigates the city's underbelly, he encounters a series of bizarre and comical situations, revealing the absurdities of society and the incompetence of the authorities. The narrative combines elements of noir and farce, ultimately leading to a surprising and entertaining resolution.