Challenged by the lonely life on the prairie, Johann, Janus, and Anna struggle to stay the course and make a home on the Nebraska plains. Together, the three German immigrants toil on the land, preserve its bounties, and raise a family. Along the way, their friendship is threatened by intimate feelings and jealousy. Romance and love fill Johann's life when he courts the beautiful but determined Helena. During their marriage, they raise five independent children. Through country schooling, corn husking bees, and learning how to live on the prairie, the Gehring children rely on each other like the branches of a lone cottonwood tree. However, they too are tested by the Stock Market Crash, the Dust Bowl, the Depression, an outbreak of Spanish Flu, the prejudices of war, and personal tragedies becoming strong Americans who strive to make a difference in their world. Berta, the strongest daughter, struggles to balance her need to help her family survive life's struggles and the needs in her own life. Short Description Strong Americans homestead on the Nebraska Sandhills prairie and build families through struggles and tragedies. Faith and dedication support their desire to make a difference in their world.