In this continuing sequel to "Clan of the Cave Bear", Ayla was cruelly tossed out by the Clan members, (mainly Broud). She was told to go find the "Others," and she wanders about trying to find a place to settle in. As she continues her hunting as in the book before, Ayla meets a foal, whom she names Whinney. And interestingly, later a baby cub, who she calls Baby. These are her friends. But Ayla is still very lonely without human companionship. On the other side of the fence is Jondular. He is making a journey, traveling across the Great Mother river. Tragedy strikes however, and he and Ayla will cross paths. Ayla finds Jondular in pain and goes to rescue him.