A deeply engrossing story about friendship, youth, and idealism from the bestselling author of Snow Falling on Cedars.

When John William Barry and Neil Countryman met in 1972, the 16-year-old boys find they share a youthful idealism and a love of the outdoors. But after high school, their paths diverge. John William eventually drops out of society, and only Neil knows his whereabouts. He remains loyal to his oath of secrecy, until years later, when a shocking truth is revealed.