It is the 1930s, in the midst of the Great Depression, and ten-year-old Charlie Whitman is about to become a chore boy. He will work and live on a neighboring family's farm while his family will receive a small amount of money each week for his work.
Charlie is a bit homesick and misses living with his brothers and father, although he's glad to be away from his stepmother, stepbrother, and three young sisters. As he gets used to his new duties with the MacDuncans and follows their instructions carefully, he grows to love all the animals on the farm, especially one small calf who particularly needs his help. Charlie also goes to church with the MacDuncans and begins to learn about God and about Jesus. But when his brother Lloyd gets very ill, Charlie must do his best to remain hopeful and find love and forgiveness in his heart.
This historical novel for middle readers follows ten-year-old Charlie as he becomes a chore boy on a nearby farm, learns about taking care of animals, and plans for the future.