In the 1840s, when Lucy and her parents move "out West" to a farm in Indiana, Aunt Liza sends a birthday gift from Baltimore. Secured in a latched box, it begins its journey by mail coach, but a broken strap launches it on a string of unexpected adventures, hurtling over splintering bridges and past reckless carriage drivers along the National Road. It finds its way to Lucy via a variety of folk who once traveled this historic road, among them a teamster, hog driver, circus performer, peddler, and minister. Each person adds something to the box, ultimately giving Lucy the best gift of all--Aunt Liza, traveling west to see if she can have as many adventures as one wooden box.