Before the accident Nathaniel's life seemed pretty good. His help around
the farm made his father proud. But now, with a busted leg, Nathaniel
can't do farmwork anymore, so his father adopts another son through the
Orphan Train. Feeling replaced and useless, Nathaniel attends school for
the first time. Meanwhile, sturdy and strong John is able to do the work
that earns Pa's attention.
But the truth is, John Worth has his own set of troubles. He is treated
more like a servant than a son. Kept awake at night by nightmares of his
family's death, he remembers having a pa who took pride in him. But now
he has no one, until a community battle and a special book reveal a
potential friend -- and a chance for understanding.