The novel is set in the picturesque island of Sri Lanka. Despite being a homeless and parentless boy, Sunil is never defeated by adversity. He studies hard. He is also given to reflection and the loving contemplation of nature. Eventually, he overcomes the obstacles in his way. This story uplifts those with flagging spirits. The book points the way to surmount all that is negative in ourselves. It proves that poverty does not necessarily result in unhappiness, nor does wealth guarantee happiness.