Young Frank and Rudy must do most of the tasks on their Missouri farm. Because of a family loss, they are saddened, but they bravely move on. Life is not all work for them, though, for they have wonderful times fishing for "the big one" and swimming in their muddy pond. Then one day their father shocks them with the happy announcement "You are going to attend the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair". During their time at the fair, the sons meet a brother they have never seen, discover a glorious new era of invention, and have their first taste of a beverage called "iced tea". The journey is magic for them both, but even moreso for Frank when he meets a girl named Grace.