Junius feels a strong connection between himself and his grandfather who has recently returned to his Caribbean island homeland. When Grandfather's letters to Junius are suddenly filled with obscure references to pirates and kidnapping, Junius convinces his father that they must go to Grandfather's aid. Shifting points of view give readers insights into the thoughts and feelings of both the teenager and the old man, celebrating the strength of the black family. Hamilton's lyrical language is full of Caribbean cadences and rhythms, thereby creating a rich ambiance. (Age 11 and older)

After his grandfather leaves his family and returns to a dangerous situation on his home island in the Caribbean, fourteen-year-old Junius decides to follow him in search of his lost heritage.