Have you ever had to move to a new city or state? Did you find it hard to leave your old home and friends? In 1848, people were promised free land if they would move to Oregon and build a home. Joshua's parents join a wagon train heading west to start a new life and, at first, Joshua is excited about this new adventure. Along the way, they see many interesting things like buffalo, but there are lots of hardships, too. People die from disease and accidents along the trail. They have to brave the harsh cold and worry about being attacked by Indians. Read Joshua's Diary to find out how he deals with feelings about leaving home and starting all over, and maybe it will help you through an emotional move, too.