Will lives with his parents and his grandfather. The Civil War is over, and they are living as free former slaves. However, as sharecroppers, it doesn't seem like they are free. Working on land that isn't theirs for money they end up turning over to the landowners, makes it seem like they are still slaves.
News of the Oklahoma land rush gives Will's father the hope of owning his own land and being truly free. Leaving his mother and grandfather behind, Will and his father set off to travel by wagon in hopes of getting to Oklahoma by the April 22 deadline. On that day the land rush is on to claim a piece of the two million acres open for settlement. If they are successful, they can claim 160 acres. If they work the land for five years, it will become theirs.
Will is excited to be traveling with his father, but he doesn't understand how difficult it will be. There is rough terrain, snakes and other wild animals, and towns with criminal elements out to take advantage of naive travelers. In one town they are rescued by a former Union soldier who agrees to help them along on their journey. This partnership makes life a bit easier, especially when they must cross the dangerous Red River.
Can they make it by the deadline? If they do, can they claim the land that will change their lives? Author Jewell Parker Rhodes brings to life an exciting time in history readers will remember long after they turn the last page.
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