It was the mid-1800s. The small family of Irish immigrants was left penniless after the devastation of the unexpected storm. Finn's dad and favored older brother set out for the new state of California to rebuild their fortune. They did not return. Months later a letter arrived instructing the family to come at once. They could not. Finn would have to go - alone - across an entire continent! So begins the tale of a boy's journey into adulthood as he faces the challenges and obstacles of almost impossible odds while making his way from America's east coast, through the jungles of Panama, to the West Coast of America. A long and perilous journey. And what would the consequences be if he was caught with the runaway slave? And could his new friend, the strange Russian immigrant, be trusted? Finn's journey of 1800 miles, along the Pathway to the Gold, could end in disaster.