James and Minnie face numerous challenges as they set out from their small village in Scotland to take on the task of homesteading on the Canadian Prairies. On board the ship they are subjected to many mishaps that cause Minnie to second guess their decision to leave the comforts of home and family. Fortunately, they are befriended by others who, facing uncertain futures in Europe, are in similar situations. They share mutual uncertainties that enable them to gain strength and reassurance from each other. While some incidents are based on fact, others are included to add to the novel's uniqueness.