Chrysta's story begins in Benton, Illinois, where she is an unusual twelve year old. Her well developed body causes problems at school and home, and she always associates anger and distrust with Benton. She leaves Illinois to hitchhike around the West as a runaway, encountering various adventures in New Mexico and California, and meeting her first best friend. Finally ending up in Arkansas by mistake when her means of transportation breaks down, Chrysta feels a certain aura about the town, "vibes" that tell her Excelsior Springs is a good place to live. With the many "artsy" young people around, the tourist center seems warm and inviting, providing not only employment, but friendship. Most of the novel's action takes place here as Chrysta tries to find what she has never experienced before—a true home.