John Ashley, a ten year old living in Winnetka in 1899, rescues, with the help of his friend, Sam, a pair of mallards from the fire at the house and barn of a local farmer. Uncertain at first that he really wants to keep the ducks, he becomes fond and protective of them, once risking his life in the lake to keep them from being swept away by a strong current The ducks, and later their ducklings, his friendship with Janet who has a pet bear, and Wally B who open up new interests in animals and nature, make a summer of excitement and growth, the Fourth of July, a high point. in early September, with mingled happiness and sadness, John, Janet and Sally(?) deliver the ducks to the Lincoln Park Zoo, where Janet's pet bear has already found a home.