It's 1815 in Heron's Creek, Georgia, when Yip Tolroy--mute, and destined to be a social outcast--is born. His father disappeared under mysterious circumstances, so he is raised by his mother: a troubled, independent woman who runs a general store. At the age of 15, Yip witnesses the discovery of gold; meets his faithful friend, Dud Carter; and commits a grievous crime. Thrust into a world of violence, Yip and Dud are forced to embark on an odyssey that will introduce them to the wonder and horror of the American frontier.