Josefina Montoya is growing up on a rancho near Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 1824. Ever since Mama died a year before, Josefina and her three sisters have been struggling to carry on without her. One bright fall day, happy news arrives—their beloved grandfather is returning home after a long trading trip. Josefina knows that he will bring exciting stories and wonderful treasures from his journey. But this time he brings something more—a great surprise that Josefina and her sisters never even dreamed of!"

Josefina is delighted when Tia Dolores returns to the Montoyas' rancho. But soon after she arrives, a flash flood kills hundreds of the family's sheep. Tia Dolores suggests that the Montoyas could recover from this terrible loss by starting a weaving business—something Mama never would have done. But Papa likes the idea. Then Tia Dolores decides to teach the girls how to read. Mama didn't read, but Josefina is excited to learn. Then she begins to worry. Will all these changes make the girls forget Mama? The answer to Josefina's question teaches her an important lesson about love.

Christmas won't be the same without Mamá, and Josefina fears one special tradition will be forgotten. But La Noche Buena—Christmas Eve—brings surprises for all.

Josefina is pleased and proud when her godmother, T'a Magdalena, asks for her help with springtime chores. T'a Magdalena is a respected healer in the village, and Josefina hopes to become a healer just like her someday. Then one day at T'a Magdalena's house, Josefina makes an awful mistake that shatters her hopes. She's sure T'a Magdalena will never teach her now! But when Josefina visits her Pueblo Indian friend Mariana, a terrifying adventure shows her just how much she's already learned.

Josefina's family is in Santa Fe to make an important trade, and Josefina can't wait to get her first look at American traders. Before their wagon train arrives, Josefina meets a scout named Patrick. Though his American ways seem strange, she can't help liking him. When Papá trusts Patrick with the family's trade, Josefina decides to trust him with a trade of her own. Then Patrick leaves town without paying Papá or Josefina! It seems he's betrayed them—until, late one night, Josefina makes a surprising discovery.

Josefina and her sisters are shocked when Tía Dolores announces her plans to leave the rancho. Is there anything that can persuade her to stay?

Book by Tripp, Valerie