Growing up in San Francisco in the 1860s, ten year old Ben Sterling spent much of his time helping his father in the family bakery and making deliveries for him.

His life, however, would take a fascinating turn when he met the stray dogs named Bummer and Lazarus and a highly unusual man who called himself The Emperor Norton.

The story, based on actual events that occurred in San Francisco, provides an interesting look at life during these times and a portrait of a man whose fame would continue for many years after he was gone.