When Kaya and her family join with other Nez Perc ̌and Salish Indians to fish for the red salmon, she and her older sister hope to be reunited with their younger sister, who had been kidnapped some time before. Includes historical notes on the summer activities of the Nez Perc ̌Indians.

Ten-year-old Kirsten regrets the promise she has made to a ragged boy she discovers alone near a wrecked covered wagon not far from her Minnesota home.

Feeling lonesome and missing her sister and her horse who were captured by enemy raiders, Kaya befriends a dog that has wandered near camp. Although others warn her not to trust the animal, Kaya senses something different. Then, an annual gathering makes Kaya hopeful of her sister' return, and a group of hunters bring news of horses running wild in the mountains. Will this summer bring the happy reunions Kaya's tribe is hoping for?