Nine year old Herbie learns to cope with his world in spite of all the obstacles he has to overcome. He was born with special problems other kids don't have-terrible headaches, a hard time communicating, and a temper he can't always control. Herbie has learned to distrust everyone, but a teacher he gets to know while living in a group home is finally able to win his confidence. Through all the problems he faces, he learns who he can really trust, and how to communicate critical information when it is most needed. He also finds clever ways to defend himself when bullied. Throughout the story, Herbie draws on his own inner strength to meet the challenges life presents to him.

Fresh off the boat from Europe and looking for adventure, a young German named Charlie heads west. He finds plenty of excitement on the untamed American frontier. Whether it is an encounter with a grizzly, a hostile Indian, or a dishonest white man, he always manages to emerge victorious. He gets out of one dangerous situation after another, thanks to his quick wits, his skill with a gun, and his remarkable strength (which earns him the nickname "Old Shatterhand"). Along the way, he makes friends with an equally remarkable young Indian, Winnetou. Together, they embark on adventures throughout the West. This classic adventure story of the American west, along with a host of other books and stories by Karl May, shaped the perception of the frontier for generations of readers. May's books became the all-time best-sellers in Germany and were translated into many languages, but good English translations have been difficult to find-until now.