Reminiscent of Stand by Me and Lily's Crossing, this story of courage and camaraderie during World War I will touch the hearts of readers. Joe is trying hard to be brave. His father has left to fight in the Great War, and now it's up to him, at age 11, to keep his household and sheep ranch running smoothly. He would much prefer fishing and kidding around with his pals--and avoiding the ever-bullying Thornton brothers. But as the war heats up, his whole community seems to grow as nasty as the bullies, turning against some of their own townsfolk for reasons Joe can't understand. And though the summer has its moments of unexpected joy, it will take the shock of tragedy for Joe to finally discover the true meaning of courage, and the comfort and power of friendship.