In the late 1800s, mountain folk Caje Amis and his father live off the land and have few interactions with more sophisticated people. But at the onset of an especially harsh winter, the two take shelter with distant relatives. The adjustment to their new life is not an easy one for Caje, but it is impossible for his father, and the elder Amis ends up abandoning his son and vanishing into the cold!

This gripping and suspenseful story takes the listener back to the hardscrabble days of the pioneers and the challenges they faced in their daily lives. Listen as Caje fights Indians, wolves and his own fears; learn some wood lore along the way.

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AUTHOR
William O. Steele (1917-1979) published thirty-nine books over his long career, many of them award winners. A native of Franklin, Tennessee, he set many of his historical adventures in the hills and valleys where he grew up.

NARRATOR
Richard Brewer, has appeared in numerous stage productions, such as Rosencranz and Guildenstern are Dead, Thieves Carnival, and the Stephen Sondheim Musical Company. His television credits include Las Vegas, Boomtown, and House M.D. His voice can be heard in Disney's The Little Mermaid II and The Lion King II: Simba's Pride.

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REVIEWS
Kliatt
"The narrator does a superb job of getting into the emotions of the young protagonist, reproducing the accent and style of speaking of the time. This is the kind of old-fashioned story many seek, and would be suitable for vacation-trip family listening."

School Library Journal
"Actor Richard Brewer does a fine job of narrating this adventure, using different voices to emphasize the slang and strange words of the time. A good historical novel for reluctant readers, especially boys."

The New York Times Book Review
"Distinguished not only for its clear evocation of the sense of physical danger, of hunger and cold, but also because Mr. Steele makes us feel deeply the emotions of a boy."