Story Overview

Jason, his mother and grandfather toiled the hard clay soil. The non-existence of rain for months is a hardship on their efforts to grow their few vegetables. Several weeks, the strong vegetables were ready to harvest. There would be enough for a few weeks for the family and enough to sell at the market.

Jenny's Surprise

Jennys father confided happily to her, The Lad and Lassies, be getting a present on the morrow. That will be a lovely surprise for the wee Bains, Pappa. Midday of the same morning distant dust clouds disturbed the dirt track. The old man called to Jason, Hurry Laddie! Take your sisters into the cellar!

Family Emergency

Jenny racing behind Jason, continued inside to fetch her fathers rifle and bullets. The rebels destroy the vegetable patches and taking most of Jennys meagre food supply.

Jason's Talent and New Friendships

Jasons drawing talent gets them some money for food. The stranger, Martha befriends Jason in Cuba. She writes asking him to work for her in Australia. Assuring Jason her offer is not charity, Jason accepts.

New Life in Australia

AND SO Jason and Ruthys lives in Australia began. Life is normal for them until Jason return to Cuba to collect the key to his mothers Jewelry box.