What will life be like in a shelter for the homeless? That's what Livvy wonders after her father, "Poppy," loses his job and her mother leaves them. While their father looks for work, Livvy and her little brother, Younger, get to know the people in the shelter. Some are scary, while some are friendly. Before long Livvy finds a way to earn money to help Poppy buy a home. She can't stop believing in Poppy's promise "When the leaves in October are red and gold, we'll be home." Then one day Poppy has good news and bad news. Will Livvy have to give up her dreams of living together as a family?