Opal the ostrich pushes past her anxiety to take on a big responsibility at her family's annual party.

Twelve-year-old Suzy Bowles dreams of life outside the small town of Burr Oak Michigan, but when she stumbles on the opportunity to learn ostrich-riding with the infamous Madame Marantette her obligations to her family on the farm threaten to derail her dreams of a bigger life. Includes photographs and information on Madame Marantette.

When Ozzy and two other ostriches are threatened by three lions, Ozzy shows the other ostriches how to stand up for themselves.