In 1851, twelve-year-old orphan Austin Ives joins a wagon train headed for California. As they make their way across the country, Austin writes home to his brother Levi, describing day-to-day life on the Overland Trail. In his own observant and vigorous voice, Austin tells of the everyday happenings—hunting game and fording streams—as well as more dramatic episodes, from devastating illness to complex encounters with Indians.