As winter falls away, Baldmoney, Sneezewort and Dodder awake from their hibernation. But their thoughts quickly turn to Cloudberry, who some months earlier had set off alone to find the source of the folly.
There are tensions among the gnomes as they consider the danger their expedition may cause them, including the legend of Giant Grum. Their friend Joe the Crow offers to scout ahead, but will his findings ease their fears?
The first week of May arrives, and Baldmoney and Sneezewort have finally completed their boat, The Dragonfly. Dodder, beset by his missing leg, knows that he won't be able to take part in the expedition, and ruefully stays behind.
Baldmoney and Sneezewort face exhaustion as they sail to the Moss Mill, where they have agreed to meet up with a water vole who will help them on their journey. Receiving better fortune is Dodder, who is gifted a bone for a new leg.
Baldmoney and Sneezewort have a close escape from death after surviving a journey down a waterfall, but more dangers await them. Meanwhile, terrified Dodder experiences his first-ever flight, thanks to a lift from a heron.
Under threat by a large stoat, Baldmoney and Sneezewort must use every ounce of their will and ingenuity to try to escape certain death. Even worse, they know that if they do somehow escape with their lives, further dangers await them.
Baldmoney and Sneezewort reach the edge of Crow Wood, a bleak, desolate landscape where no sounds can be heard. Various animals warn them against going further, as the two gnomes learn of the wood's true dangers.
Baldmoney and Sneezewort meet an unfriendly pheasant who threatens to call for Giant Grum and have them hung from the gibbet. But as they're getting ever nearer to the folly, will they find Cloudberry at last?
Reunited with Dodder, Baldmoney and Sneezewort look on as he decides to summon the great God Pan to help them. Will Pan show mercy to the Giant Grum, or enact a terrible vengeance?
With peace in Crow Wood restored, Baldmoney, Sneezewort and Dodder once more set off in The Dragonfly in search of Cloudberry. For the first time they find a sign from Cloudberry, but will they be able to find him?
As autumn falls and leads into October, Baldmoney, Sneezewort and Dodder lie emaciated on the deserted island, unable to find a way home. Will the toy boat the "Jeanie Deans" prove to be their salvation?
As winter beckons, Baldmoney, Sneezewort and Dodder make their way home. But will they get there safely, and, having temporarily given up the search for Cloudberry, will they ever be reunited with their missing friend?