An immigrant story of the first generation of Japanese to come to America. This adventure begins with the coming of age of two boys, and follows their lives as they mature to manhood. Masao and Shiro share a common problem that binds them together as friends. They must free themselves from the prejudice of Japanese society. As youths they hear the promise of a land where hard work will earn them freedom from injustice. Their adventures span the turn of the century, the first modern war, and the hardship of stating a new life in the land of opportunity. America prospers as new immigrants build the most successful society of the twentieth century.