Several sources list this book as a Western, or Classic Western, I might be more inclined to call it a frontier novel, but I guess the Old West was the frontier. The novel is basically an hommage to frontier women to their strength, their industry, and spirit. The story is comprised of multiple vignettes, told from the nostalgic perspective of Jim Burden. Jim has come to live with his grandparents and meets Antonia and her immigrant family who've just purchased land close to his family. Antonia and Jim have adventures growing up, and although Jim and Antonia are never romantically involved they mean a lot to each other.