Narrates the tale of twelve-year-old Charles Dickens who, despite poverty and long hours of factory work, still has time to discover and share the stories of other residents of 1824 London. Includes author's note about Dickens' life and some of the books he wrote.

When Sal drives a stagecoach alone for the first time to pick up and deliver mail, her mother is afraid she will meet local outlaw Poetic Pete, but Sal not only excels at roping, riding, and shooting, she is also an excellent singer. Ages 4-7.

During the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863, a mother and son shelter a young Confederate deserter. Includes a historical note on the incident.

As a child, John Avery Lomax loved the songs he heard the cowboys singing along the nearby Chisholm Trail. He began writing them down at an early age. As John grew older, he traveled the country collecting and recording cowboy songs, helping to preserve many favorites.