The Children of White River

In the small rural community of White River, an old native settlement close to Route 66 in New Mexico, a small city hall and town square, shops, and houses decades old make up the main thoroughfare. A young African American boy, Raymond Chisnek, is an orphan adopted by Henry (Big Bear) Smart, a Native American resident of White River, who also has another adopted child, Iris Padillo, a Native American. The three become a family, even though they are of mixed heritage. The first few months are difficult for Raymond, as he tries adjusting to his new residence, but his adoptive father and overprotective adoptive sister make him feel as if he has always belonged. The town mayor, Rutherford B. Simms, is a stern man who loves to intimidate to gain power. His family runs three successful businesses that provide both revenue and jobs for the community, so he feels justified that he has total control over White River. As an opportunity for more financial gain emerges, the Simms family needs Smart's support. When their offer is rebuffed, tension builds between both households, placing Raymond and Iris squarely in the crosshairs of the Simms, who view them as rotten little scoundrels. Their silly, but innocent past antics come to haunt them, as both the Simms and Smart children prove that White River isn't big enough for both of them.