As they rallied around Abby's birth in the cotton field, the townsfolk of Ponca City, Oklahoma, continue to rally for the girl who was marked to be special for them throughout her life. The strong ties of this community help Abby survive a tornado, a physical assault and the revenge of a deranged neighbor. Abby continues the circle of care and support when she learns her grandmother's gifts of medicine and in turn adds her strength to the community. (14 years and older)

She has grown up--Abyssinia Jackson has--under a vast Oklahoma sky shaded with pecan trees and dotted by endless rows of cotton. She has the gift of song, a storyteller's talent, the love of her parents, and the affection and pride of her community.

Then a tornado hits and drives Abby's family apart. A deranged neighbor targets her for a campaign of vengeful terror. And a physical assault all but breaks her will.