Annie runs away to the forest when she learns that her uncle plans to sell her and she will be sent to the Drop to mine ringstone, a precious gemstone. The people of Howland fear the dark which descends immediately and the kinderstalk that inhabit the forest but this doesn't stop Annie from seeking refuge in the forest. She encounters a variety of evils and finds help from unexpected sources in her adventure. This fantasy uses many fairy tale elements and lets the reader in on some secrets before Annie. Young readers will cheer Annie's bravery and resourcefulness and be surprised at the ending.