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.