The Reading Warehouse

Billy Thundercloud and Rudy Jim are cousins, but they've been raised as brothers ever since Billy's parents died in a car accident. The two boys are very different. Billy is passionate about football, but Rudy excels at academics. However, both boys are dedicated to exploring their identity as members of the Navajo Nation. Billy wants to take over his late father's role as a medicine man in their community. Rudy focuses on learning about traditional healing herbs and other medicines.

The cousins are proud of their shared identity, but a number of events test their friendship. The first challenge comes when Carmen Yellowhorse transfers to their junior high school in Shiprock, New Mexico. Both Rudy and Billy compete for her heart, but a serious medical crisis threatens to distance Carmen from the two boys forever.

Meanwhile, Billy continues to focus on football and becomes an accomplished kicker. But after a cruel prank almost ruins his ambitions, he turns to powerful drugs and becomes hooked. A pregnancy, another medical scare, and Billy's addiction all complicate the three friends' relationships as they move on to college. But a surprising sacrifice from Rudy demonstrates the amazing strength of their bond.