The land is dying. The world is enslaved. At the king's command, Kaitee and her people work day and night destroying poisonous berry bushes around her village, keeping one eye constantly on the skies, fearing the return of the horrible winged terror known as The Shadow. When the monstrous bird returns one day, Kaitee's little brother is taken, and the young girl must embark upon a life-changing journey to rescue him. Along the way, she meets an odd assortment of companions who teach her valuable lessons about life, love, loyalty, and leadership--lessons she will desperately need. For she discovers that in order to save her little brother, she must first save the entire world.