The story of rural life and a family’s struggles on a Wyoming farmstead. Of their poignant relationship with the land and an unyielding spirit to wrestle nature’s capriciousness. Of personal triumph and loss. Our humble narrator, eldest of three children, journeys to adulthood and faces battles of his own. Tragedy, confusion, laugh-aloud amusement, all determine his future in profound ways. His fascination for Hollywood movies and for music and news programs from an old stand-up radio, anchors us in the middle decades of the 20th century and those events that have etched its vibrant culture into our Western psyche.
Get acquainted with a delightful but troublesome mule named Hobo Joe—prank of nature and best friend to our narrator. Great Grandma—first generation immigrant, heart of the family and playful matriarch fond of terrorizing the grandkids with her glass eye. Ma and Pa—loving parents beset by frustration and tragedy. Uncle—war-wounded veteran who tests his nephew’s perceptions of life. Granma—steady influence and notable wit. Great Auntie—war widow and indomitable spirit. Finally, two wayward brothers—family nemesis and architects of their own grievous misfortune. Add in a motley farmyard of other animals along with three hounds and a massive, irritable hog named King Henry the Eighth, and it’s a fine recipe for fun and mayhem.