The novel follows the story of a young orphan boy who, after being sold to a traveling artist, embarks on a journey across France in search of his true identity. Along the way, he encounters a diverse cast of characters and experiences the hardships and joys of life on the road. His adventures and the relationships he forms with the people he meets, including a loyal dog, help him to grow and learn valuable lessons about love, friendship, and the meaning of family. Despite the challenges he faces, the boy's resilience and kindness shine through, making this a tale of personal growth and human compassion.

The 5264th greatest book of all time