In 1845, Nauvoo is a dangerous place to live. The Prophet Joseph Smith has already been martyred. Now the Saints must protect one another as they finish building the Lord’s temple before they head west. While the men guard the town from anti-Mormon mobs during the night, it is up to the boys to watch over the town during the day—as part of the Whistling and Whittling Brigade.

For young Oliver Evans, an opportunity to join the Brigade is a dream come true. He desperately wants to help keep an eye out for dangerous people, and he can whittle anything a mind could imagine—but he can’t whistle a single note. When the fate of the temple rests in his hands—and on his lips—will Oliver be able to save the day?