In this richly detailed wild-west adventure, Billy learns about oxen and life from the charismatic Frenchy and the other rough men in the wagon train.  Life is hard on the trail, and especially so for an inexperienced boy on his own. Billy learns how to handle the huge, obstinate animals, and gains the skills needed to travel the rough trails of the great plains and the frontier. The drivers suffer thirst, heat, storms, unending labor, and the threat of Indian attacks. The men who are Billy's companions are not always easy to get along with, and a disagreement leads to Rock's leaving the caravan. Then Frenchy disappears.

The trail boss’s horse bolts in fear, and Billy sets out on his own to find and bring back the horse, hoping to find his friend, Frenchy, at the same time. Alone in the wilderness, Billy is tested to the maximum. The tension builds to a surprising climax. 

The compelling characters and fast action in this western historical adventure of the post-Civil War migration will appeal to even reluctant readers. Billy is an exciting new character who teens will love. The ending did leave an opening for a possible sequel...I'll be watching for more from this talented writer.