Shy, eight-year-old Liam is anxious about attending a local powwow with his best friend, Zach, but he soon discovers that the venue is full of exciting things to eat and do--from delicious Indian tacos to lively drum circles and dancing.

On a snowy day Liam's school is having a lockdown drill, but being shut in still makes eight-year-old Liam anxious--until he finds a errant caterpillar and focuses his attention on the chilled insect.

Sometimes Liam, an Ojibwa boy, has to retreat to his room and escape into his imaginary world with the animal friends he has drawn, who can reassure him that whatever happens he is safe and loved.

When Liam, an Ojibwa boy, and his mom go to adopt a dog from the shelter, Liam chooses Gizmo, a Chihuahua mix with behavior problems.